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y SIR WILLIAM 'FRASER, K.C.B.. LLD. -<£
IN THREE VOLUMES:
VOL.! I -CORRESPONDENCE.
EDINBURGH 1892
* v V^-
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1702538
Contents of eiotttme £>ccoitD.
PAGE
TITLE-PAGE, . i-ii
TABLE OF CONTENTS, iii-iv
ABSTRACT OF THE CORRESPONDENCE OF THE EARLS
OF SUTHERLAND, v-xxxviii
CORRESPONDENCE OF THE EARLS OF SUTHERLAND—
Royal Letters, Warrants, etc., . . . . . 1-37
State akd Official Letters, ..... 38-110
Family and Domestic Letters, ..... 11 1-336
LETTER OF ADVICE BY SIR ROBERT GORDON, . . 337-368
COLLECTED SEALS AND SIGNATURES, . . . 369-381
ILLUSTRATIONS IN VOLUME SECOND.
Letter by King Edward the First of England to William, second Earl of
Sutherland, c. 1304, . . . . . . -facing 1
Letter by King George the First to John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland,
17th January 1716, . . . . . . . „ 27
Letter by William, Duke of Cumberland, to William, sixteenth Earl of
Sutherland, 23d April 1746, . . . . • »> 34
VOL. II. *
CONTENTS.
Letter by Frederick, Prince of Wale?, to William, sixteenth Earl of
Sutherland, 26th January 1748, .... .facing 35
Letter by Peter Ramus to Sir William Cecil, knight, 21st July 1568, . „ 11 1
Letter by Sir Walter Scott to Elizabeth, Marchioness of Stafford, nth
November 1826, . . • • • ■ ■ >» 33°
WOODCUT SIGNATURES OF
Mary of Guise, Queen Dowager, 1557
Elizabeth, Queen of England, 1563,
Mary, Queen of Scots, 1571,
King James the Sixth, 1601,
King Charles the First, 1634, .
King Charles the Second, 165 1,
King William the Third, 1693, .
Ferdinand William, Duke of Wirtemberg
and Teek, 1694,
King George the First, 1714, .
ICing George the Second 1727,
Adolphus Frederick, Dake of Cam
bridge, 1S44,
James, third Marquis of Hamilton, 1631,
Archibald, Earl, afterwards Marquis of
Argyll, 1640,
James, Earl, afterwards Marquis of Mon-
trose, 1G40,
John Graham, Viscount Dundee, 16S9,
John Erskine, sixth Earl of Mar, 1 7 14,
John, first Duke of Marlborough, 1715,
John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, 171 5,
John, second Duke of Argyll, 1716,
John, first Duke of Roxburghe, 1716, .
James, first Duke of Montrose, 1719, .
John, twelfth Earl of Sutherland, 1615,
Lady Jane Gordon, Countess of Both-
well and Sutherland, 16 17,
Katherine, Duchess of Lennox, 1624, .
Frances, Duchess Dowager of Richmond
and Lennox, 1 626, .
37
3*
40
43
44
4S
4S
01
6z
69
117
124
143
145
Lady Henrietta Stuart, Marchioness of
Huntly, 1636,
Sir Alexander Gordon of Navidale, 1636
John, thirteenth Earl of Sutherland, 1644
Lady Helen Cochrane, Lady Strath
navei, 16S7,
John, Lord Strathnaver, afterward
fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, 1696,
Simon, Lord Lovat, 17 14,
William, Lord Strathnaver, 1727,
DameFraneesTraveljCoLintessofSuther
hiid, 1727,
Helen Sutherland or Colquhoun, 1 745.
John, fifteenth F.arl of Sutherland, 17I;
Katherine, Lady Strathnaver, 1746,
William, Lord Strathnaver, afterward
seventeenth Earl of Sutherland,
Lady Elizaheth Sutherland, 174S,
William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland
1750,
Mary Maxwell, Countess of Sutherland
1761,
William, seventeenth Earl of Suther
land, 1766,
George Granville, Earl Gower, 1S01,
Elizabeth, Countess of Sutherland
1S03,
Sir Walter Seott, 1S09,
Elizaheth, Marchioness of Stafford,
1S20,
Arthur, first Duke of Wellington, 1S43,
163
ifo
1/3
I rS
2CO
220
2-';
246
266
268
271
273
275
2S4
2(f)
315
316
317
331
J 34
ABSTRACT OF THE CORRESPONDENCE
THE EARLS OF SUTHERLAND.
I.— ROYAL LETTERS, WARRANTS, ETC.
TAGE
1 Kilter Edward the First of England to William, second Earl of Suther-
land, thanking him for his good faith and goodwill. St. Andrews,
4th April [1304], l
2 Receipt bv Mary of Guise, Queen Dowager of Scotland, to John, tenth
Earl of Sutherland, for £300 Scots, as part of a greater sum which
he, Gilbert, Earl of Cassillis, and Henry, Lord Methven, were bound
to 'pay for the Queen to Timothy Cagnioli, banker in Florence.
Edinburgh, 30th September 1553, -
3. Letter by Marv of Guise, Queen Dowager of Scotland, granting to
John, tenth" Earl of Sutherland, a pension of one thousand merks
Scots yearly during her lifetime. Edinburgh, 7th July 1555, 2
4. Commission by Mary, Queen of Scots, to John, tenth EarUf Sutherland,
to apprehend Neil M c Kay, wh
naver. Banff, 12th September
to apprehend Neil M c Kay, who had committed slaughter m btrath-
naver. Banff. 12th September 1556, 3
5 Letter by Mary of Guise, Regent of Scotland, to John, tenth Earl of
Sutherland, and George, fourth Earl of Caithness, requiring them to
execute a commission to apprehend Thomas Robertson, a pirate.
Edinburgh, 12th March 1557, 4
ABSTRACT OF SUTHERLAND CORRESPONDENCE.
11563.
PAGE
6. Elizabeth, Q'.icen of England, to Thomas Randolph, English resident
in Scotland, desiring him to ascertain the wishes of Mary, Queen of
Scots, regarding an application by John, tenth Earl of Sutherland, for
protection to live in England. Windsor, 2d September [15C3], 3
7. Mary, Queen of Scots, to Thomas Randolph, English resident in Scotland,
requiring that John, tenth Earl of Sutherland, be set at liberty.
Glasgow, 8th September [1565], 6
8. Mary, Queen of Scots, to Elizabeth, Queon of England, complaining that
the Earl of Sutherland had been made prisoner at Berwick.
Holyrood House, 24th Xuvember 1363, 7
9. Order by Mary, Queen of Scots, for a pension of 200 livrea yearly to be
paid to Mr. John Gordon, one of her attendants. Sheffield, 18th
September 15 71, » "
10. Warrant by King James the Sixth for a remission to Lady Jane Gordon,
Countess of Sutherland, for interconnnuning with George, Earl of
Huntly. 1594, 9
11. Letters of Licence by King James the Sixth to Lady Jane Gordon,
Coiaatess of Sutherland, permitting her to depart from Edinburgh.
c. 1595, 9
12. Licence by King James the Sixth to John, twelfth Earl of Sutherland,
permitting him to go abroad for five years. Linlithgow, 29th
October 1597, 10
13. King James the Sixth to Mr. John Gordon, about a ^monument in
memory of the Gowrie Conspiracy, llolyrood House, Sth July 1G01, 10
14. Licence by King James the Sixth to Robert and Alexander Gordon,
scholars, brothers of John, twelfth Earl of Sutherland, to go abroad
for seven years. Dunfermline, 25th May 1G02, 11
15. Licence by King James the Sixth and the Tiivy Council to John,
twelfth Earl of Sutherland, permitting him to go abroad for three
years. Edinburgh, 22d January 101 1, 12
109 i.] ROYAL LETTERS, WARRANT*, ETC.
PACK
1G. Kin;* James the Sixth to the Privy Council of Scotland, instructing
thein tcuu quire into tlie right of Sir Robert Gordon to the abbacy of
Glenlucc. Whitehall, 29th April ] 021, 13
17. King James the Sixth to Sir Robert Gordon, promising £2000 sterling
for the abbacy of Glenluce, which is to bi» united to the See of
Galloway. Ilinchinbroofr, 27th October 1622, 14
IS. Warrant by King Charles the First for payment of £2000 sterling to
Sir Robert Gordon. Greenwich, 24th June 1032, 14
19. Warrant by King Charles the First to the Privy Council, securing to
Sir Robert Gordon, with consent of the Viscount of Stirling, the
benefit of the fourth part of the copper money towards the payment
of the two thousand pounds lately granted to him. Greenwich, 27th
June 1632, 15
20. King Charles the First to John, thirteenth Earl of Sutherland, about
the repairing of the cathedral church of Caithness, recommending'
him to advise with the bishop. Greenwich, 22d June 1(33-1-, 16
21. King Charles the Second to John, thirteenth Earl of Sutherland, desiring
him to concur with the Committee of Estates in recruiting the army
and other necessary measures. Stirling, 28th July 1651, 17
22. King William the Third to the Privy Council of Scotland, appointing
two regiments of foot to be raised, of which John, Lord Strathnaver,
and Sir James Aloncrieff were to be colonels. Kensington, 21st
February 1692-3, 18
23. Orders by King William the Third to John, Lord Strathnaver, after-
wards fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to obey the orders of Count
Tyan. Koosbeeck, 19th June 169-1, 19
24. Ferdinand William, Duke of Wirtemberg, to John, Lord Strathnaver,
afterwards fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, directing him to march at
the orders of the Count de Thian. Eigne, near Ath, 23d August
1694, 19
25. The Same to the Same, giving him leave to return home. Ghent, 4th
December 1694, oq
Vlll
ABSTRACT OF SUTHERLAND CORRESPONDENCE. [1694.
PACE
2G. TVs by Ferdinand "William, Puke of Wirtemberg and Teck, to John,
Lord Strathnaver, to go to England. Ghent, 13th December 1694, 21
27. Letter by Ferdinand William, Duke of Wirteniberg and Teck, to the
Same, about his claim to the poot of brigadier, and a passport to be
sent to him. Ghent, 5th January 169G, 21
.»,)
2S. The Same to the Same, about cantonments for his regiment. Middle-
bourg, lGth March 1G9G,
29. King George the First to John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, requiring
him to attend his curoaation. St. James's, 6th October 1714 23
30. John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to King George the First, excusing
his absence from parliament, which was owing to a fit of the gout,
and to a multiplicity of business caused by the recent death of his
mother. 7th April 1715, 24
31. Instructions by King George the First to John, fifteenth Earl of Suther-
land, who had been appointed Lord-lieutenant of the shires of Caith-
ness, Sutherland, Moray, Nairn, Ross, and Cromartie. St. James's,
25th August 1715, 25
32. King George the First to John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, thanking
him for his defence of Inverness. St. James's, 17th January 1716, 27
33. John, fifteenth Earl of 'Sutherland, to King George the First, in answer
to the foregoing letter, and expressing his loyalty to the King. Inver-
ness, 7th February 1716, 27
34. The Same to the Same, advising that all disaffected persons should be
dismissed from the army. Marlborough Street, 19th March 1716-17, 29
35. The Same to the Same, that the gont had prevented him from congratu-
lating the king on the anniversary of his coronation. London, 21st
October 1717, 30
36. John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to George, Prince of Wales, afterwards
King George the Second, expressing his devotion to the royal family.
Marlborough Street, 10th November 1717 31
1844.] ROYAL LETTERS, WARRANTS, ETC
PAOE
37. John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to Frederick-Lewis, Prince of Wales,
expressing much gratification at receiving the Prince's letter. London,
26th May 1727, o.s., 32
38. The Same to the Same, asking his influence in favour of the Earl's elec-
tion as a representative peer. London, 2Sth July 1727, O.S., 32
39. The Same to the Same, requesting the Prince to make his grandson one
of his bedchamber. Post 1727, 33
40. King George the Second to John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, dispensing
with his attendance at the coronation. St. James's, 9th October 1727, 34
41. William, Duke of Cumberland, to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland,
instructing him to take measures to capture Lord Lovat. Inverness,
23d Aprif 1746, 34
42. The Same to the Same, informing the Earl that Lord Lovat and his son
were lurking about the woods of Glenmoriston, and desiring him to
put his people in search of them. Inverness, 24th April 1746, , So
43. Frederick, Prince of Wales, to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland,
assuring him of his affection. Leicester House, 26th January 1743, 35
44 Orders by King George the Second, instructing William, seventeenth
Earl of Sutherland, to raise a battalion of Highlanders. Kensington,
11th August 1750 35
45. Augustus-Frederick, Duke of Sussex, to George, first Duke of Sutheiland,
congratulating him upon his being promoted to the dignity of a duke.
Kensington Palace, 16th January 1833 36
46. Adolphus-Frederick, Duke of Cambridge, to George, second Duke of
Sutherland, about the writer's recent visit to Trentham, Staffordshire.
Kew, 20th August 1844, 3 ?
ABSTRACT OF SUTHERLAXD CORRESPONDENCE. [1631.
II.— STATE AND OFFICIAL LETTERS.
PAGE
47. James, third Marquis of Hamilton, to John, thirteenth Earl of Suther-
land, expressing his desire and expectation of help from the Earl in
levying soldiers for his expedition to Germany. Holyrood House,
13th May 1631, 3S
48. The Committee of Estates to John, thirteenth Earl of Sutherland, vindi-
cating the proceedings in Parliament, and counselling union in
reference to defence against the King. Signed by Argyll, Montrose,
and others. Edinburgh, 24th January 1G4U, 30
49. Military Order by Major-General Middlcton, commander of the forces
in the north of Scotland, to Lieutenant-Colonel Campbell, regarding
rebels in Lord Reay's lauds, who troubled the Earl of Sutherland
and his friends in their possessions in Strathnaver. Gordonstown,
28th January 164S, 40
50. The Privy Council of Scotland to John, Lord Strathnaver, warning him
of Argyll's intended invasion, and desiring him to muster his forces
to be at Locliness by the 9ih of June. Holvrood House, 17th May
16S5, " a
51. The Same to the Same, thanking him in his Majesty's name for his ready
obedience, and directing him to disband his regiment. Edinburgh,
23d June 1085, 41
52. John, Lord Strathnaver, to John Graham, Viscount Dundee, a letter
written by desire of Sir Thomas Livingstone, urging Dundee to
follow the example of the Duke of Gordon. Inverness, 3d July
1689, 42
53. John, Viscount Dundee, to John, Lord Strathnaver, in answer to the
preceding, that Derry was taken, and King James was soon to land
in the West. Struuan, 15th July 1639, 42
54. John Erskine, sixth Earl of Mar, to John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland,
informing the latter that the Lords Justices had forbidden him to
assemble any number of people for hunting. Whitehall, 31st August
1714, 44
1715-10.] STATE ASD OFFICIAL LETTERS.
PAGE
55. Henry, sixth Earl of Suffolk, to John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, inti-
mating that the King had appointed him to bear the third sword at
his coronation. Suffolk Stieet, 18th October 1714, 44
50. John, first Duke of Marlborough, to John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland,
congratulating him upon his signal services. London, 20th February
1715, 45
57. John, first Duke of Athole, to John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, asking
him to come to Perthshire with his men. Blair Castle, 9th October
1715, 45
5S. Johu, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to the Lairds of Kilravock, elder
and younger, and to Colonel and Captain Grants, about taking
measures for protecting Dunrobin. Dunrobin, 11th October 1715, 40
59. Hugh Rose of Kilravock, Mr. "William Rose, George Grant, and William
Grant, to Johu, first Duke of Athole, about co-operating with the Earl
of Sutherland. Kilravock, 1 3th October 1715, 47
CO. John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to William, Lord Strathnaver, his
son, exhorting him to exert himself in behalf of his king and country.
Dunrobin, 14th November 1715, 48
01. John, first Duke of Athole, to [the Roses of Kilravock, father and son,
and others], giving an account of the defeat of the" rebels at Sheriff-
muir. Blair Castle, 15th November 1715, 49
02. John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to William, Lord Strathnaver, that
the forces were to march to Elgin. Burgie, 5th December 1715, ... 50
03. Resolutions of a Council of War at Inverness, as to the movement of
troops. 26th December 1715, 50
64. James Farquharson, aide-de-camp to John Erskine, sixth Earl of Mar, to
William Sutherland of Geese, announcing the arrival of the Pretender
in Scotland. Wick, 14th January 1716, 51
65. Lieutenant-General William Cadogan, afterwards Earl Cadogan, to
John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, stating that it was his intention
to besiege Perth. 14th January 171 5-1 G, 51
xii ABSTRACT OF SUTHERLAND CORRESPONDENCE. [1715-16.
PAGE
66. James Stanhope, Secretary of State, to John, fifteenth Earl of Suther-
land, intimating the King's thanks for his good service ; surrender
of the Earl of Seafuith; Lord Lovat's pardon. -Whitehall, 23d
January 1715-16, 5*2
67. Letter from Mr. Thomas Robertson, without address, giving a full account
of the proceedings near Inverness during the Rebellion, and of the
taking of the town. Inverness, 30th January 1716, 53
68. John, second Duke of Argyll, to [John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland],
informing him of the movements of the King's troops. Aberdeen,
10th February 1716, 61
69. John, first Duke of Roxburghe, to John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland,
congratulating him on his successful campaign. London, 13th
February 1715-16, 61
70. John, second Duke of Argyll., to John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland,
instructing him to disarm the rebels. Aberdeen, 20th February
1716, 62
71. J. Robethonto [John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland], with congratulations
on the honour the Earl had acquired. St. James', 2 1st February 1716, 63
72. Lieutenant-General William Cadogan, afterwards Earl Cadogan, to
[John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland], stating the measures taken
against the rebels. Aberdeen, 26th February 1716, 64
73. Memorandum regarding a letter sent by John, first Duke of Athole, to
John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland. Blair Castle, 30th March 1716, 65
74. J. Robethon, to [John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland], about the Earl's
visit to Hanover. Gohre, 24th October 1716, 65
75. Extracts from two letters of Monsieur Robethon, to the effect that he had
read Lord Sutherland's letter to the King, who would be pleased to
see him at Hanover. Gohre, 5th November 1716, ' 67
76. John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to Mr. Robethon, congratulating him
upon the success of the King's arms (at Glenshiel) against the rebels.
Marlborough Street, 19th June 1719, 68
1745.] STATE AXD OFFICIAL LETTERS. xiii
FACE
77. James, first Duke of .Montrose, to [John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland],
congratulating him on the gallantry of his men at Glenshiel.
Hanover, 11th July 1710, G9
78. John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to James, Earl of Stanhope, thanking
the Earl for the King's favour bestowed on the family for their
services. Marlborough Strett, 1st August 1720, GO
70. John, first Duke of Roxburghe, to John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland,
that the King had conferred on him the chatnberlainry of Ross.
Broxmouth, 2d August 1720, "0
80. John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to Sir Robert Walpole, regretting his
inability to be present at the coronation. Edinburgh, 27th Sep-
tember 1722, "1
81. John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to John, second Duke of Argyll, re-
questing him to speak to Sir Robert Walpole in his behalf. Edin-
burgh, 23d November 1727, 72
82. John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to Thomas Holies, Duke of New-
castle, secretary of state, reminding him as to his services, and the
offers made to the earl by the Earl of Oxford in Queen Anne's
time. Edinburgh, 23d November 17 27, 73
83. John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland (address wanting, probably to the
Duke of Newcastle), recommending his grandson. Circa 1727, 73
84. Mr. George Munro, Newton, to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland,
about measures for protecting the county of Sutherland from depre-
dators. Newton, 11th July 1737, 74
85. John, fourth Marquis of Tweeddale, to William, sixteenth Earl of Suther-
land, intimating his appointment to be first lord of the police in
Scotland. Whitehall, 1st December 1741, 75
80. Robert Craigie of Glendoick, lord advocate, to William, sixteenth Earl
of Sutherland, intimating a report that the Pretender's eldest bou had
embarked near Nantes. Edinburgh, 5th August 1745, 75
b
xW ABSTRACT OF SUTHERLAND CORRESPONDENCE. [1745.
PAGE
87. "William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, to Mr. Robert Craigie of Glen-
doick, lonl advocate, with proposals for the defence of the Highlands
in view of the expected invasion. Dumobin, 1 lth August [1745],... 7G
88. George, third Lord Reay, to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, as to
arrangements for sending men to Sir John Cope. [September 1740], 77
89. The Same to the Same, referring tu their joining in strict friendship.
Tongue, 9th September 17-45, ; 78
90. Duncan Forbes of Culloden. Lord President of the Court of Session, to
William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, intimating the arrival at Leith
of arms from the Tower. Culloden, 12th September 17-45, 80
SIXTEEN LETTERS from John*, ronrni Earl of Loudoun, commander-
in-chief of the King's forces in the north of Scotland, to William,
Sixteenth Earl of Sutherland.
91. (1) Arrangements for the forces under his command. Inverness, 24th
October 17-45,. 81
92. (2) Commending Captain Gun's company. Inverness, 27th October
1745 82
93. (3) The course he is adopting with those who have given their oaths to
the enemy. Inverness, 24th November 1745, 83
94. (4) The desertion of many of the soldiers. Inverness, 19th December
1745, 84
95. (5) News of the Highland army's being at Glasgow and Hamilton. In-
verness, 13th January 1745-6, 84
96. (6) The rebels marching upon Inverness. Inverness, 7th February
1745-6, 85
" 97. (7) The rebels take Inverness. Dunskethness, 20th February 1745-6, 86
17 tC] STATE AXD OFFICIAL LETTERS.
PAi'.E
9^. (8) To order all the boats from Sutherland to the' feny near Tain. Bul-
nagowanj 21st February 1745-6, £G
99. (9) The arrival of arras. Balnagowan, 22d February 1 745-G, 87
100. (10) The forces about to leave Balnagowan. Balnagowan, 2 2d Feb-
ruary 1745-6, 87
101. (11) To issue instructions for the defence of the passes on the Shin.
Dornoch, 24th February 1745-6 88
102. (12) About the four companies on^thc Shin. Dornoch, 28th February s'
1745-6, ?7r^T7^rr.-^77r.-T-. ^ S3
103. (13) That the Duke of Cumberland and his army were on their way
to Inverness. Dornoch, 10th March 1746, 89
104. (14) Thanks for the boats ordered to the Ferry. Dornoch, 11th
March 1745-6 S9
105. (15) Giving warning of an intended surprise on the part of the enemy.
Dornoch, 15th March 1745-6, 90
106. (16) Regarding arms and ammunition to defend the house of the Earl
of Sutherland. Dornoch, 19th March 1745-G, 91
107. The Presbytery of Dornoch to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland,
expressing their satisfaction with his steady adherence to the
1'rotestant cause. Golspie, 14th November 1745, 92
103. William Mackay, Inverness, to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland,
giving an account of the capture of Simon, Lord Lovat. Inverness,
12th December 1745, 93
109. Andrew Fletcher of Milton, Lord Justice Clerk, to William, sixteenth
Karl of Sutherland, conveying the King's commauds to him to assist
the Duke of Cumberland. Edinburgh, Sth March 1746, 91
ABSTRACT OF SUTHERLAND CORRESrOXDEXCE. [1746.
PAGE
110. Hugh Monro to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, narrating the
doings of the rebels at Dunrobin. Invergordonness, 27 th March
174G, 95
111. Captain Thomas Dove to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, stating
that the rebels were in possessiun of the Earl's house. Cromartic
Lay, 27th March 1740, 97
112. Mr. Andrew Monro to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, relating
the actions of the rebels in Sutherland. Edinburgh, 29th March
174G, •• 97
113. Hugh Monro to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, of the destruc-
tion of the country by the rebels. Monwhither, 2d April 1740, 99
] 14. Sir Everard Fawkener to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, about
discoveries made in the correspondence of a certain person. Spey-
niouth, 14th April 174G, 100
115. Warrant by William, sixteenth Earl of Sntheiland, to John Gun of
Eraemow* and Dugald Gilchrist, factor to the Earl, to make investiga-
tion regarding arms and effects belonging to George, third Earl of
Cromartie ; with a Minute of the proceedings following thereon.
Dunrobin, 21st April 1746, 100
110. Alexander Brodie of Brodie, Lyon King of Arms, to William, sixteenth
Earl of Sutherland, asking him to protect the Countess of Cromartie's
house and family. Inverness, 21st April 174G, 102
117. William Mackay to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, stating that
two French men-of-war had landed money and arms on the west
coast. Inverness, 14th May 174G, 103
118. Sir Everard Fawkener to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, that
no representations had been made against him to the Duke of
Cumberland and as to his goinsr to England. Inverness, ICth May
1746, ~ 104
1827.] STATE AXD OFFICIAL LETTERS.
119. John Huske, afterwards lieuteuant general, to William, sixteenth Earl
of Sutherland, conveying the thanks of the Duke of Cumberland for
the Earl's present of 200 guineas to the army. Inverness, lGth May
174G, 105
120. John Frigge to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, regarding the
rebels and their country. Inverness, lGth May 174G, ".. 105
121. David Bruee to "William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, stating that the
Earl's generosity was ordered to be mentioned in public orders.
Inverness, 17th May 1740, 10G
122. Lord Chancellor Hardwicke to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland,
reqniriug him to attend the trial of the Earl of Kilmarnock and
others. House of Lords, 30th June 174G, 107
123. SirEverard Fawkener to "William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, stating
that the Earl's letter will be shown to the Duke of Cumberland.
London, 27th June 1749, 107
12-1. Elizabeth, Countess of Sutherland, to Johu Fraser, Esq., Dunrobin,
regarding volunteer commissions. London, 15th January 1795, 108
125. George Granville, Earl Gower, husband of Elizabeth, Countess of
Sutherland, to the Same, regarding an offer to raise a corps of
volunteers for the defence of Strathnaver. "Wimbledon, 13th
October 179G, 10S
12G. Elizabeth, Countess of Sutherland, to [John Fraser, Esq.], about the
Skibo and Dunrobin volunteers. Petersham, 30th August 1799, ... 109
127. The Right Hon. William Huskisson, Colonial and War Secretary, to
George, second Marquis of Stafford, afterwards first Duke of Suther-
land, about the purchase of York House by the Marquis.- Somerset
Place, 14th December 1827 110
ABSTRACT OF SUTHERLAND CORRESPONDENCE. [15GS.
HI.— FAMILY AND DOMESTIC LETTERS.
TAGE
1*28. Peter Ramus to Sir William Cecil, Knight, introducing John Gordon,
afterwards Dean of Salisbury. Paris, 21st July 1508, Ill
129. Lady Jane Gordon, Countess of Sutherland, formerly Countess of
Both well, to Lady Agnes Keith, Countess of Argyll, formerly
Countess of Murray, asking her to sign a precept of clare constat of
the lands of Kyntissock in favour of the writer's husband. Elgin,
5th May 1576, 112
130. John, twelfth Earl of Sutherland, to his brother, Sir Robert Gordon of
Gordonstown, complaining of hard usage from the High Commission,
etc. Holyroodhouse, 2 3d February 1615 113
131. The Same to the Same, wishing a warrant from tho king to stay at
home. Dumobin, 22d May 1615, US
132. George Gray of Soirdaul to Sir Robert Gordon, tutor of Sutherland, re-
questing the latter to defend his letter of tack — quarrel between
MacKay and his wife. Skibo, 21st September [1016], 121
133. Jane, Countess of Sutherland, to Sir Robert Gordon, her son, as to the
desirability of appointing Mr. John Gray to be Bishop of Caithness.
24th September 1616, 123
134. The Same to the Same, that it was impossible to send more linen cloth.
Duurobiu, 22d November 1016, 124
135. Sir Alexander Gordon of Xavidale, to Sir Robert Gordon, his brother,
regarding the teinds of Pronsie and the Laird of Duflus. Dunrobim
, 2 2d November 161 G, \ 125
130. Sir Donald Mackay to Jane, Countess of Sutherland, his grandmother,
desiring the settlement of disputes. Chanoury of Ross. '5th May
1617, 129
137. Jane, Countess of Sutherland, to Sir Robert Gordon, her son, regarding
the gift of Golspie tower, etc. Duurobiu, 1 Gth May 1617, 131
1624.] FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS.
PAGE
13S. George, first Marquis of Himtly, to Sir Robert Gordon, regarding a
witch, etc. Hun tly, 17th August 1017, 132
139. Arthur, Lord Forbes, to Sir Robert Gordon of Gordonstown, tutor of
Sutherland, as to the proceedings of the Earl of Caithness with his
creditors. Drirninoir, 2d September 1 G 17, 133
1 10. Sir Robert Gordon, tutor of Sutherland (address wanting), probably to
his agent in Edinburgh, respecting the state of affairs in Sutherland,
and legal proceedings. Dunrobin, 22d February 1618, 134
141. Sir Donald Mackay to Sir Robert Gordon, that he is to sell Eddera-
chills, and wishing him to purchase it. 1 st April 161 S, 136
142. Alexander, fourth Lord Elphinstone, to Sir Robert Gordon of Gordons-
town, tutor of Sutherland, about a denreet pronounced by tlie Sheriff
of Cromarty, and as to Sir Donald Mackay, etc. Stirling, 8th Feb-
ruary 1619, 137
143. Sir Donald Mackay to Sir Robert Gordon, regarding the Commission
against the Earl of Caithness. Diryrnoir, 10th August 1619, 139
144. Sir Donald Mackay to George, fifth Earl of Caithness, that he will
attend the meeting with Sit Robert Gordon. Loghstalk, 27th August
1619, 140
145. John Abernethy, Bishop of Caithness, to Sir Robert Gordon, to provide
the vicarage of Culmanie to Mr. Alexander Duff. Jedburgh, 29th
August 1621, 140
146. Andrew Lamb, Bishop of Galloway, to Sir Robert Gordon, his unsuc-
cessful efforts to obtain an audience of the King. London, 21st
April 1623, 141
147. Jane, Countess of Sutherland, to Sir Robert Gordon, her son, to bring
his niece, Lady Anne, with him from Strathbogie. Dunrobin, 25th
May 1623, 142
148. Katharine, Duchess of Lennox, to Sir Robert Gordon, desiring his
presence at the hearing of her cause. Drurie Lane, 14 th October
1624, 143
ABSTRACT OF SUTIIERLAXD CORRESPOXDEXCE. [1626.
PAGE
149. Alexander Stewart to France?, Duchess-Dowager of Lennox and Rich-
mond, requesting money to help him in levying a company of
soldiers. 12th February [1020], 144
150. Frances, Duchess-Dowager of Lennox and Richmond, to Sir Robert
Goidon, regarding the request by Alexander Stewart. Elvetham,
12th February 1626, 144
151. A. Haitly to Sir Robert Gordon, about Mr. Stewart's request. Elve-
tham, 13th February 1626, 145
152. Sir Robert Gordon of Gordonstown to Frances, Duchess-Dowager of
Lennox and Richmond, about the Duke of Buckingham's farewell
entertainment to the King and Queen. 14th May, c. 1G27, 146
153. Sir Alexander Gordon to Sir Robert Gordon, his brother, for instruc-
tions about the Earl's charter-chest at Kildrummie, and settlement of
the feud between Frendraught and Rothumiay. Dundee, 21st June
1C28, 14V
154. J. Cuningham to Sir Robert Gordon of Gordonstown, tutor of Suther-
land, reporting the progress made by John, thirteenth Earl of Suther-
land and his brothers, at St. Andrews University. St. Andrews,
10th July 1G2S, MS
155. Sir Alexander Gordon to Sir Robert Gordon, his brother, about the
affairs of the estate, and that their mother, the Countess of Suther-
land, was on her deathbed. Dunrobin, 21st July 1628, 150
156. Donald, Lord Reay, to Sir Alexander Gordon, in reference to assist-
ance, and alleged plots by Sir Robert Gordon. Xo date, but circa
1630, IS-
IS 7. Sir Alexander Gordon to Sir Robert Gordon, regretting the redemption
of his lands by the Earl of Sutherland, and that he was going to
Ireland. Edinburgh, 21st July 1632, , 153
158. Colonel John Monro of Obsdell to Sir Robert Gordon of Gordonstown,
giving accounts of the war in Germany. Duderstat, 3d August 1632, 155
159. John, thirteenth Earl of Sutherland, to Sir Robert Gordon, arrival of
goods at Prestonpans. Drummond, 2 2d September 1632, 157
16-14.] FAMILY AXJJ DOMESTIC LETTERS.
PAGE
1(50. Colonel Robert Monro to Sir Robert Gordon of Gordonstown, giving
an account- of the war in Germany, and the perfidy of the Duke of
Saxony. Hamburg, 3Ut October 1635, 158
161. Captain Adam Gordon of Kilcolmkill to Sir "Robert Gordon of Gordons-
town, acknowledging assistance from the Earl and Countess of
Sutherland in levying men for service in Sweden. Gottenburg,
11th November 1635, 161
102. Lady Henrietta Stuart, Marchioness of Tlnntly, to Sir Robert Gordon,
as to the wrongs suffered by her husband, and the home-bringing
of her son. Canongate, 12th February 1636, 1 62
163. Sir Alexander Gordon of Navidale to Sir Robert Gordon, his brother,
that lie should speak with Sir "William Dick about his debts, etc.
Dornoch, 23d May 1636 r 163
161. John, thirteenth Eail of Sutherland, to Sir Robert Gordon, as to the
chaplaincy of Kinaldy, etc. Dunrobin, 1-ith June 1636, 165
165. Sir Alexander Gordon of NaviJale to Sir Robert Gordon of Gordons-
town, his brother, regarding business with Lord Reay, the Earl of
Seaforth, the Laird of Assynt, and others. Dornoch, 5th July 163G, 166
166. The Same to the Same, about his son's affairs, and the marriage of his
"nephew" [grandnephew], the Master of Reay. Dunrobin, Sth
July 1G36, 168
1G7. John, thirteenth Earl of Sutherland, and others, to the Laird of Fin-
drassie, calling v meeting at Forres in regard to the service-book.
Inverness, 26th April 163$, 169
168. George Gordon, brother of John, Earl of Sutherland, to Sir Robert
Gordon, his uncle, advising him that he had been charged to appear
before the parliament. Newcastle, 30th November 1640, » 171
169. John, thirteenth Earl of Sutherland, to David, Lord Eleho, afterwards
second Earl of Wemyss, as to affairs in Sutherland and Caithness.
Tain, 14th August 16-4-1, 171
ABSTRACT OF SUTHERLAND CORRESPONDENCE. [1G55.
PAGE
170. Jolm, thiiteenth Earl of Sutherland, to Sir Ludovic Gordon, of Gordons-
town, younger, sending him his plate to be sold at Inverness, and
asking him to obtain for the Earl a pa^s to Strathnaver. Dunrobin,
18th April 1C5j, 173
171. John, thirteenth Earl of Sutherland, to Sir Robert Gordon, about the
difficulty of raising money. Dunrobin, 29th October 1 G55, 174
172. John, thirteenth Earl of Sutherland, to Sir Ludovic Gordon of Gordons-
town, about raising money to pay debts and the expenses of his sons
in London, ete. Dunrobin, 28th February 1G5G, 17G
173. Sir Kobert Gordon of Ernbo, to George, Lord Strathnaver, afterwards
fourteenth Earl of Sutherland, respecting the affairs of the estate of
Sutherland. Dunrobin, ISth August 1 GOO, 178
174. John, thirteenth Earl of Sutherland, to his daughter-in-law, Lady Jean
"Wemyss, Lady Strathnaver, stating that his journey south would not
be so early as he had expected. Dunrobin, 20th September 1GG0,... 179
175. John, thirteenth Earl of Sutherland, to his son George, Lord Strath-
naver, regarding the choice of commissioners for the shire to parlia-
ment, and commissioners for the assessment, etc. Dunrobin, 21st
September 1G60, 180
17G. Lady Jean Gordon, wife of Captain Robert Stewart of Ethay in Orkney,
to George, Lord Strathnaver, requesting him to offer her excuse for
non-eompearance before the Presbytery of Sutherland. Ethay, 1st
June 1661, 183
177. Alexander, first Lord Duf.'us, to George, Lord Strathnaver, concerning
certain tacks of teinds and the mussel scalps of the Ferry Ovens.
Elgin, 4th November 1G62, 1S3
178. Patrick, Bishop of Caithness, to the Heritors of the parish of Farr,
appointing Mr. John Munro to serve the parish temporarily. Thurso,
14th May 1663, 185
179. Alexander, first Lord Duffus, to George, Lord Strathnaver, further con-
cerning the dispute as to the mussel scalp. Elgin, 14th December
1663, : 18J
1692.] FAMILY AND DOMESTIC LETTERS. xxiii
PAGE
180. David, second Earl of Weinyss, to his daughter, Lady Jean Wemyss,
Lady Strathmu er, informing her about her son John. "Wemyss, 1 6th
May 1606, 186
181. John Murray of Abirscors and David Murray to George, Lord Strath-
navcr, requesting him to proceed against certain rebels. Balloun,
10th April 1607, " 180
182. Margaret Bayne to George, Lord Stratlmaver, complaining of the violent
usage which she and her tenants received from Donald Bayne and
others. Abirscors, 7th September 1G71,., 188
183. George, fourth Marquis of Huutly, to [John, Lord Stratlmaver, after-
wards fifteenth Earl of Sutherland], about the militia, and stating
that a stop had been put to the dividing of Argyll's estate, etc.
14th May 1683, 189
184. The Same to the Same, with congratulations on the birth of the
Master of Stratlmaver. 19th December 1683, 190
185. George, first Duke of Gordon, to [John, Lord Stratlmaver, afterwards
fifteenth Earl of Sutherland], events following the death of King
Charles the Second. Gordon Castle, 24th February 1685, 190
186. George, fourteenth Earl of Sutherland, to his son, John, Lord Strath-
naver, complaining that he sends no answer to his letters, and
stating that he had come from Germany some days ago. [Rotterdam,
November 1685], 191
187. Lady Jean "Wemyss, Countess of Sutherland, to John, Lord Stratlmaver,
her son, narrating the incidents of her voyage to Rotterdam. Rot-
terdam, 10th November 1C85, 192
188. Lady Helen Coehrane, Lady Stratlmaver, to her husband, John, Lord
Stratlmaver, family news. Dunrobin, 9th September 1087, 193
189. Lady Jean Wemyss, Countess of Sutherland, to Lady Katharine
Ilamilton, Lady Murray, her search for quarters for the winter at
Falkland. Clampom, 25th March 1692. 194
A BSTRA CT OF SUTIIERLA XD CORRESPONDENCE. [1692.
PAGE
190. The Srrae to the Same, requesting the use of her conch-house at Holy-
rood Abbey. London, 12th May 1002, 195
191. Lady Jean Wemyss, Countess of Sutherland, to Anne, Duchess of
Hamilton, expressing condolence with the latter on the death of
William, Duke of Hamilton, her husband. Holyrood Abbey, 24th
April 1G94, 19G
192. John, Lord Strathnaver [address wanting], that a euurt- martial had
acquitted him and condemned Captain Key. Bruges, 22d October
1G9G, 197
193. John, Lord Strathnaver [address wanting], relating the proceedings
and finding of a Court-martial which had been held to inquire as to
a mutiny in the regiment. Ghent, 21 th October 1G97, 198
1 94. Lady Jean Wemyss, Countess-Dowager of Sutherland, to George, first
Earl of Cromartie, about the aliment due to her grandchildren of the
Arbuthnott family. Holyrood Abbey, 5th July 1704, 199
195. [John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to John, second Duke of Argyll],
that he intended to retire from public life. Dumobin, 18th June
1705, 200
19G. [John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to Lady Elizabeth Talmash,
Duchess-Dowager of Argyll], about Strichen and his two brothers and
the regiment of his son, Lord Strathnaver. 18th June 1705, 201
197. John, Lord Somers, to John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, regarding
certain articles of the Treaty of Union. London, 25th November 170G, 202
19S. Sir William Ashurst, a Commissioner of Excise, to John, fifteenth Earl
of Sutherland, that the Treaty of Union had been ratified in the par-
liament of England. London, Gth March 170G-7, 203
199. John, Lord Somers, to John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, expressing
regret that his lordship had not been returned as a representative
peer. London, 22d July 1708, 203
1716.] FAMILY AND DOMESTIC LETTERS.
PAGE
200. Lady Jean Sutherland, wife of James, Lord Maitland [address wanting,
but probably to Katharine, Lady Strathnaver], about the affairs of
John, fifth Viscount Arbuthnott. Holy rood Abbey, 8th March 1711, 204
•201. Simon, Lord Lovat, to John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, expressing
his resolution to spend his life for the royal family of Hanover. 2d
December 1714, 205
202. Simon, Lord Lovat, to John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, begging him
to use his influence with Sir David Dalrymple. No date, circa 1714, 20G
203. The Same to the Same, that his life and fortune depended on the earl's
favour. London, 30th April 1715, 207
204. The Same to the Same, expressing his entire trust in the earl's protec-
tion. London, 7th September 1715, 207
205. Letter, without signature or address, probably an intercepted letter,
narrating the proceedings at Blair on the passage of Mar's army,
1715, 208
206. John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to Katharine, Lady Strathnaver,
about the health of "William, Lord Strathnaver, her husband.
Cromartie Road, 6th March 1716, 209
207. Simon, Lord Lovat, to John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, that he had
been employed in disarming the Maekenzies, also about Fraserdale's
remission, etc. Inverness, 21st March 17 1G, 210
208. Simon, Lord Lovat, to "William, Lord Strathnaver, that his remission
as Lord Lovat had passed the great seal. Dullmagary, 3d April 1716, 212
209. John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to his son, William, Lord Strath-
naver, chiding him for showing leniency to the rebels. London, 18th
July [1716], 213
210. Robert, Lord Balfour of Burleigh, to John, seventh Earl of Rothes,
excusing himself for joining the rebels. [July 1716] 214
ABSTRACT OF SUTHERLAND CORRESPONDENCE. [1716.
PAGE
211. John, seventh Earl of Rothes to John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland,
asking Iris aid to obtain the King's pardon for Lord Balfour of
Burleigh. Leslie, 2d August 1716, 215
212. Robert, fourth Lord Eollo to John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, com-
plaining that he as" well as the other prisoners were to be transported
to Carlisle. Edinburgh Castle, 2 7th August 1716, 215
213. Alexander Ross, solicitor, Edinburgh, holograph but unsigned, to
[William, Lord Strathnaver], giving an account of Lord Lovat's
proceedings, and of a duel between Major James Cathcart and Mr.
Gordon of Ardoch. Circa 1716, ,. 216
214. William, Lord Strathnaver [address wanting, but apparently to
Alexander Ross, solicitor, Edinburgh], intimating the birth of his
daughter, Lady Helen Sutherland. Dunrobin, 17th April 1717, ... 220
215. Simon, Lord Lovat, to John fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, asking his
personal influence with the members of the Court of Requests.
London, 19th June 1717, 221
216. Simon, Lord Lovat, to John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, reminding
the earl that he had acted with much zeal during the rebellion.
London, 23d September 1717, 222
217. John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to Charles, Earl of Sunderland,
success of the royal forces at GlensluVl. Marlborough Street, 19th
June 1719, 223
218. John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to James, Earl of Stanhope, asking
for the post in Exchequer vacant by the death of the Right Hon.
Joseph Addison. Marlborough Street, 19th June 1719, 224
219. John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to Charles, Earl of Sunderland,
requesting the office vacant by the death of his son, Lord Strath-
naver. Marlborough Street, 25th July 1720, 225
220. James, Earl of Stanhope, to John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland,
expressing regret at the death of William, Lord Strathnaver.
Hanover, 18th July 1720, o.s., 226
1728.]
FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. xxvii
PAGE
221. William, Lord Strathnaver, to his grandfather, John, fifteenth Earl of
Sutherland, expressing his satisfaction that he is to go to Hanover.
Angers, Oth February 1727,
222. William, Lord Strathnaver, to his grandfather, John, fifteenth Earl of
Sutherland, stating his desire to remain iu Paris some time before
o..i,'.
* to Hanover." Paris, 20th March 1727, 227
goin
NINE LETTERS from Frances, Countess of Sutherland, third wife of
John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to her husband.
223. (1) Regretting his absence. 26th August [1727] 227
224. (2) About her affectionate concern for him. 31st August [1727], ... 228
*>*>5 (3) "Warnm* him not to allow others to impose on him. 14th September
[1727], ...°. 229
22G (4) Explaining why she had not written him sooner. 20th September
[1727], 230
227. (5) Expressing her anxiety about her settlements. 26th September
[1727], • 330
"28 (C) Her continued concern for the want of him, etc. 28th September
[1727] 231
229. (7) That she had excused herself to the King and Queen for not
attending the coronation. 30th September [1727], 232
230. (8) Sending him general news. 14th October [1727] 234
231. (9) Telling of her reception at Court. 6th January [1728], 234
232 Cosmo George, Marquis of Huntly, to John fifteenth Earl of Suther-
land informing him of the death of his father, Alexander, second
Duke of Gordon. Gordon Castle, 2Sth May 1728 -^
xxviii ABSTRACT OF SUTHERLAND CORRESPOXDEXCE. [172S.
PAGE
233. Lady Catherine Hyde, Duchess of Que en sherry, on being forbidden to
go to Court. Circa 172S, 235
23 4. Lady Margaret Wemyss to her brother-in-law, William, sixteenth Karl
of Sutherland, stating her intention to visit Dunrobin. Circa 1735, 235
235. General James St. Clair to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, and
Lady Elizabeth Wemyss, hi* countess, congratulations on the birth
of Lord Stratlmaver. Mahon, 13th July [i735], 23G
236. William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, to Mr. John Baillie, W.S., about
the riot in Assyut. [11th April 1737], 237
237. John Gordon, Edinburgh, to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland,
proposing re-arrangements in the new church of Golspie. Edin-
burgh, 14th July 1737, 239
23S. John Sutherland [of Forse 1] to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland,
about accounts of the earl's factor. Nottingham, 8th August 1739, 239
239. Hugh Eose, Nairn, to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, about the
purchase of the estate of Sid era. Nairn, 10th August 1739, 240
240. James, Lord Doune, to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, about
the earl's sister being at St. Cecilia's concert. Edinburgh, 28th
November 1739, 241
241. Mr. Andrew Monro, London, to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland,
inquiring about a lead mine on the Sutherland estate, etc Loudon,
1st December 1739, 242
242. Alexander Brodie of Brodie, Lyon king of arms, to [William, sixteenth
Earl of Sutherland], sending him pamphlets. London,- 29th Decem-
ber 1739, 243
243. Alexander Brodie of Brodie to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland,
with advice about business in London. London, 15th December
[1742], 243
244. George, third Earl of Cromartie, to William, sixteenth Earl of Suther-
land, requesting the use of his horse Punch. Tarbat House, 3d June
1743, 245
1745.] FAMILY AND DOMESTIC LETTERS.
I'YUK
245. Lady Helen Sutherland or Colquhoun, address wanting, but probably
to Captain Noble of Farm, about the Macgregors. Rossdhu
House, 5th January 1745, 245
246. John M c 'Douell of Glengarry to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland,
asking him to stay proceedings which the earl's factor had taken
against him. Iuvergarry, 18th April 1745, 21G
247. The Same to the Same, consenting to the earl's proposal to have the
complaint against, him submitted to arbitration. Iuvergarry, 23th
April 1745, 217
248. Alexander Brodie of Brodie, Lyon king of arms, to William, sixteenth
Earl of Sutherland, about the Duke of Gordon and the office of presi-
dent of the police. London, 4th .May 1745, 248
249. John M c DonelI of Glengarry to William, sixteenth Earl of Suther-
land, requesting to have the sentence of fugitiition against him
rescinded. Invergarry, 11th May 1745, 250
250. Colonel James Oglethorpe to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland,
approving the earl's oiler to give assistance to the country at the
bead of his vassals. Loudon, 13th June 1 745, 251
251. George, third Lord Reay, to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutheiland,
regarding the questions in dispute between them. Tongue, 1st July
1745, '. 252
252. Robert Craigie of Glendoick, lord advocate, to William, sixteenth Earl
of Sutherland, stating his satisfaction at the reconciliation between
his lordship and Lord Reay. Edinburgh, 22d August 1745, 253
253. George, third Lord Reay, to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland,
expressing his readiness to support the honour and interest of the
earl, and their agreement to support the king. Tongue, 24th August
1745, 254
254. Thomas Wedderburn, collector of excise, to William, sixteenth Earl of
Sutherland, reporting the battle of Prestonpans. Fortrose, 2Gth
September 1745, 255
A
xxx ABSTRACT OF SUTHERLAND CORRESPONDENCE. [1745.
PAGE
255. Andrew "Monro to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, with news
regarding the battle of Pi;estonpans. Inverness, 30th September
1745, 207
256. Eric Sutherland, Lord Duffus, to William, sixteenth Earl of Suther-
land, stating that he will wait upon the earl at Dunrobin. Akergill,
22d April 1^740, 25S
257. Lieutenant-General James St. Clair to William, sixteenth Earl of
Sutherland, about the progress of William, Lord Strathnaver, at
school. London, 25th April [1746], 258
258. Sir James Colqiihoun of Luss, baronet, to William, sixteenth Earl of
Sutherland, congratulating him on the victories of Culloden and
Golspie. Rossdhu, Hth May 1746, 259
259. David Bruce, judge advocate, to William, sixteenth Earl of Suther-
land, his willingness to serve the earl as he has occasion. Fort
Augustus, 7th June 1740, 260
260- Mr. James Eraser, minister of Alness, to William, sixteenth Earl of
Sutherland, recovery of a Sutherland parchment writ which had
been carried off by the rebels. Alness, 7th June 1746, 261
261. William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, to Mr. Gordon of Cairnfield, his
law-agent, sending the state of his affairs with General Sinclair.
Dunrobin, 21st June 1746, 262
262. Hugh Monro to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, about the Crown
rent of Ross, etc. Clayside, 3d July 1746, 263
263. Katherine, Lady Strathnaver, to her son William, sixteenth Earl of
Sutherland, regarding his children. Holyrood Abbey, 19th July 1746, 264
264. Lieutenant William Gunn to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland,
enclosing his commission as evidence of the loyalty of the earl's family
during the rebellion of 1715. Achintoul, 1st September 1-746, 265
265. John Munro to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, informing him
of the violent deeds perpetrated by the rebels. Rogart, 7th Septem-
ber 1746, 266
1750.]
FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS.
VAOE
2GG. Katharine, Lady Strathnaver, to her son William, sixteenth Earl of
Sutherland, regarding her annuities. Holyrood Abbey, 18th Sep-
tember 1746, -07
2G7. Elizabeth, Lady Duffus, to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, eon-
doling with him on the death of the Countess, and giving particulars
about°Lady Elizabeth, his daughter. Skelbo, 2d April 1747, 2CS
20 8. Hugh Gordon of Carroll to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, with
an account of the interment of Elizabeth, Countess of Sutherland.
Dunrobin, 2d April 1747, 270
2G9. William, Lord Strathnaver, to his father William, sixteenth Earl of
Sutherland, congratulating him on his recovery. London, 30th
May 1747, 271
270. John Gray to Robert Gray of Creich, about the elections, and narrating
an engagement with a French privateer in the Dornoch Firth. 16th
July 1747, 271
271. Lady Elizabeth Sutherland to her father William, sixteenth Earl of
Sutherland, proposing to leave school in a year. Edinburgh, 31st
May 1748, 273
272. William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, to General James St. Clair,
about his affairs at Court. [ISth May 1740], 273
273. Katharine, Lady Strathnaver, to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland,
wishing him to come and stay at home. 25th January 1750, 27 i
274. William, sixteenth Karl of Sutherland, to his unele, the honourable
General James St. Clair, aneut his visit to Bath. Bath, 25th
February 1750, 275
275. Katharine, Lady Strathnaver, to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland,
advising him not to be rash iu choosing a second wife. Circa 1750, 275
27G. William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, to the Rev. Dr. Thackeray,
withdrawing his son, Lord Strathnaver, from his school. Chelsea,
18th June 1750, 277
xxxii ABSTRACT OF SUTHERLAXD CORRESTOXDEXCE. [1750.
PACE
277. William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, to his mother, Katharine, Lady
Strathnaver, of his illness. Montauban, 20th November 1750, 277
278. Katharine, Lady Strathnaver, to General St. Clair, acknowledging his
kindness to her grandson. 18th December 1750, 278
279. The Same to the Same, ancnt applying for a new grant of the Earl of
Sutherland's lodging in the Abbey. 27th December 1750, 279
280. The Same to the Same, stating that she will not undertake the manage-
ment of the affairs of her grandson, the Earl of Sutherland. Holy-
rood Abbey, 29th December 1750, 279
281. Sir James Cohjuhoun of Lnss, baronet, to his mother-m-Iaw, Katherine,
Lady Strathnaver, intimating his assumption of the title of a barouet.
Kossdhn, 2d April 1751, 280
252. Mrs. Sinclair of Ulbster to her mother, Katherine, Lady Strathnaver,
with congratulations upon the purchase of Assynt. Thurso Castle,
3d July 1757, 281
253. Helen Sutherland, Lady Cohjuhoun of Luss, to her mother, Katherine,
Lady Strathnaver, complaining about her sister. Kossdhn, 25th
February 17 60, 282
284. Mary Maxwell, Countess of Sutherland, to Martha, Countess of Elgin
and Kincardine, congratulating her on the birth of her daughter,
Lady Janet, and referring to her own experience since her marriage.
Dunrobin, 17th July 17G1, 283
THIRTEEN LETTERS from Jean Wedderburn, wife of Sir Harry Erskine,
to Mary, Countess of Sutherland.
285. (1) Urging her and Lord Sutherland to be present at the King's
marriage. Kew Green, 17th July 17G1 2S5
1766.] FAMILY AND DOMESTIC LETTERS. xxxiii
TAOE
286. (2) Of the inteuded visit of Lord and Lady Sutherland to London.
London, 5th August 17G1, 286
287. (3) Giving the news of London. Cavendish Square, 6th May 1762, 287
288. (4) Relating news about herself, 2SS
US9. (5) Jaunting in the country and general news. London, 22d June,... 288
290. (6) Excusing herself for delaying to write to the Countess. London,
13th July 1762, 289
291. (7) Informing the Countess of Lord Garlics* intended marriage.
Cavendish Square, 24th July 1702, 200
292. (S) Declaring her affection for the Countess. Cavendish Square, 8th
August 1762, 291
293. (9) Of the illness of General St. Clair, and a visit by Sir Harry
Erskine and her to him. Dysart, 2d September 1762, 292
294. (10) About her own bereavement. London, 24th September 1765,... 293
295. (11) As to her condition consequent upon the death of her husband,
Sir Harry Erskine. London, 1st November 1765, 293
29G. (12) Condoling with the Countess on the death of her daughter, Lady
Catherine. London, 18th January 1766, .. 294
297. (13) Expressing her anxiety about the health of the Countess and her
husband. London, 25th January 1766, 295
298. William, seventeenth Earl of Sutherland, to his Countess, stating that
he is proceeding to Rosehall. Lairg [no date],..' 296
299. Mary, Couutess of Sutherland, to [no address], intimating the death of
her stepfather, Sir Charles Erskine of Alva. 7th April [1763], 296
300. Margaret, Countess of Moray, to Mary, Countess of Sutherland, giving
news about Lady Donne, Lady Erskine, and others, 297
xxxiv ABSTRACT OF SUTI1ERLAXD GORRESPOXBEXGE. [1766.
PAGE
301. Mary, Countess of Sutherland, to Martha, Countess of Elgin and Kin-
cardine, thanking her for her sympathy, and explaining about Lord
Sutherland's illness Dunrobin, 31st January 176G, 298
302. William, seventeenth Earl of Sutherland, to the Hon. James Wemyss
of Wemyss, a description of his life at Bath. Bath, 1 2d April
[1766], ..' 290
303. Mary Maxwell, Countess of Sutherland, to" the Hon. James Wemyss
of Wemyss, that Lord Sutherland was ill with fever. Bath, 10th
May 1766., 300
30-1. John Mackenzie of Delvine, W.S., Edinburgh, to Dugald Gilchrist, factor
at Dunrobin, instructing him as to the arrangements for the funeral
of the Countess of Sutherland. Edinburgh, 7th June 1766, 301
305. Alexander Mackenzie, W.S., Edinburgh, to Dugald Gilchrist, factor on
the Sutherland estate^, about the illness and expected death of the
Earl of Sutherland.. Edinburgh, 18th June 176G, 302
NINETEEN LETTERS about the Sutherland Peerage Case, addressed
to the Honourable James Wemyss of Wemyss, M.P., husband of
Lady Elizabeth Sutherland, aunt of Elizabeth, Countess of Suther-
land, the successful claimant of the Peerage, J 766-1771.
306. (1) From Captain James Sutherland of the '3Sth Piegiment of Foot,
commenting on the candidature of Colonel' Scott, and about Sir
• Kobert Gordon, claimant of the peerage. Dunro-bin, 2d September
1766, 303
307. (2) From the Same, the papers in the charter-room. Dunrobin, 13th
September 17G6, 304
308. (3) From the Same, Sir Eobert Gordon's claim. Edinburgh, 16th
November 1766, 305
1770.1 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. xxxv
PAfJE
309. (4) From the Same, a meeting at Alexander Boswell, Lord Auehin-
leek's. Edinburgh, 5th December 17G6, 30G
310. (5) From the Same, a charter by King David the Second. Edinburgh,
29th January 17G7, ". 30G
311. (6) From the Same, a meeting of counsel. London, 20th March 17G7, 307
312. (7) From Alexander Boswell, Lord Auehinleck, a petition for delay.
Edinburgh, Hth March 1770, 30S
313. (8) From Alexander Mackenzie, writer to the signet, agent for the
Counters of Sutherland, that Lord Hailes was to prepare the draft of
the additional ease. Edinburgh, 7th May 1770, 309
314. (9) From the Same, that Lord llailes was preparing the ease. Edin-
burgh, ISth June 1770, 309
315. (10) From the Same, the additional ease by Lord llailes. Edinburgh,
22d August 1770, 310
31G. (11) From the Same, that Mr. Gordon was to go to London. Edin-
burgh, 23d October 1770, 310
317. (12) From the Same, a consultation at Newhalles, ete. Edinburgh,
6th November 1770 311
3 IS. (13) From the Same, the time for the hearing of the cause, etc. Edin-
burgh, 20th November 1770, 312
319. (14) From the Same, that the ease was distributed among the peers.
• Edinburgh, 27th November 1770, 312
320. (15) From the Same, petition for hearing of the eause. Edinburgh,
5th December 1770, 312
321. (1G) From the Same, meeting of Lady Sutherland's tutors. Edin-
burgh, 10th December 1770, 313
xssvi ABSTRACT OF SUTHERLAND CORRESPONDENCE. [1770.
PAGE
322. (17) From the Same, petition to fix a day for hearing the cause.
Edinburgh, 11th December 1770, 313
323. (IS) From the Same, report of Sir Robert Gordon's death. Edin-
burgh, 25th January 1771, 314
324. (19) From Alexander Eoswell, Lord Auchinleck, congratulations on the
success of the Countess. Auchinleck, 21st Way 1771, 314
325. The Hon. James Wemyss of Wemyss to William Sutherland, asking his
vote for his son, Colonel "William Wemyss, in connection -with the
representation of Sutherlandshire. London, 23d March 1784, 315
326. George Granville, Earl Gower, to [John Fraser, Esq.], intimating the
birth of a son. Arlington Street, 17th June 1801, 315
327. Elizabeth, Countess of Sutherland, address wanting, intimating the
death of her father-in-law, Granville Leveson, first Marquis of
Stafford. Trentham, 27th October 1803, 316
328. "William Wyndham Grenville, Lord Grenville, to George, second Mar-
quis of Stafford, about the success of the Marquis at Newcastle.
Dropmore, 14th May 1S07, 31C
329. Henry Weber to Elizabeth, Marchioness of Stafford, acknowledging her
gift received through Sir Walter Scott, etc. Edinburgh, 1st July
1S09, 317
ELEVEN LETTERS from Walter Scott, afterwards Sir Walter Scott of
Abbotsford, to Elizaceth ; Marchioness of Stafford.
330. (1) Offering his grateful acknowledgments for her attention to himself
and Mrs. Scott. Asliiestiel, 21st July 1809, 317
331. (2) Regarding Lady Hood's intended stay in India. Ashiestiel, 11th
September 1811, *. 318
1843.] FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. xxxvii
JPAUK
333. (3) About the acorns sent him by her ladyship. Edinburgh, 19th
November 1 SI 1, ~ 319
333. (4) Sending her one of his poems. Abbot^ford, 6tli January, no year, 321
334. (5) About his poem, " The Lord of the Isles," etc. Edinburgh, 21st
Ja n u a r y 1 8 1 5 , 322
335. (6) Acknowledging the gift of Sir Robert Gordon's " History of the
Earls of Sutherland," and also about the picture of " Chevy Chase."
No date, 323
33G. (7) About Mr. Lockhnrt, his son-in-law, and the sheriffship of Suther-
land. Abbot-ford, 11th April 1825, 325
337. (8) Mr. Lockhart's prospects of success in obtaining a sheriffship.
Edinburgh, 23d June [1825], 327
338. (9) That Mr. Lockhart has accepted the management of the Quarterly
Eeviczc. Abbotsford, 5th November 1825, 329
339. (10) Accepting her hospitality in London. Pall Mall, 11th November
1826, ." 330
310. (11) Sending her one of his poems. Edinburgh, 30th June, no year,.. 330
341. Elizabeth, Marchioness of Stafford, to Charles Long, Lord Farnborough,
proposing on behalf of Lord Stafford remedies to relieve the increas-
ing discontent in the country. Westhill, 3d March 1820, 331
342. Elizabeth, Marchioness of Stafford, to [Margaret Maxwell of Munches],
thanking her for a copy of a letter bv Lady Nilhsdale. London,
14th August 1S20, ' .* 332
343. Sir Michael Shaw-Stewart, baronet ; to Elizabeth, Duchess of Suther-
land, offering congratulations to her and the Duke on their new
honour. Ardgowan, 19th January 1833, t 333
344. Arthur Wellesley, first Duke of 'Wellington, to George Granville,
second Duke of Sutherland, Yauder Heyden's picture of a Dutch
town. London, 25th May 1843, 334
xxxviii ABSTRACT OF SUTHERLAND CORRESPONDENCE. [184S.
FACE
3'45. Arthur "Welle&ley, first Duke of Wellington, to Harriet, Duchess of
Sutherland, regretting his. inability to accept her invitation to dinner.
London, Cth May IS 18, 335
316. Charles Kirkpatrick Sharpe to George Granville, second Duke of
Sutherland, about the signatures of Scottish ladies of rank after
marriage. Drummoud Place, 15th October [1850] 335
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CORRESPONDENCE
OF
THE EARLS OF SUTHERLAND.
Arranged under ROYAL, STATE, and DOMESTIC.
I. ROYAL LETTERS, WARRANTS, Etc.
1304— 1844.
1. King Edward the Tikst of England to William, second Earl of Suther-
land, thanking him for his goodwill, 4th April [1304].
Rex. — A notre foial et loial Willame, conto do Sutherland, salutz. Mous vous
savoms bon gre, e vous mercioms mult de la bono fay e de la bone volunte qe vous
avez totefoiz porte devers nous, e vous fesoras assavoir qe nous avoras bone
volunte dc fairc pur vous ceo qe nous purroms en bone manere. — Donne etc., Seiut
Andreu le iiij iour de Averil. 1
Translation.
The -King to our faithful and loyal William, Earl of Sutherland, greeting.
We take it well of you, and we thank you much for the good faith and the good
will which you have still borne towards us : and we assure you that we have
good will to do for you that which we can in good manner. — Given at St.
Andrews the fourth day of April (1304).
1 Original in the Public Record Office, London, Tower Miscellaneous Rolls, No.— ^ "
2 ROYAL LETTERS, WARI?AXTS,.ETC. [1553-
2. -Receipt by Mary of Guise, Queen Dowager of Scotland, to John, tenth
Earl of Sutherland, for £300 Scots, 30th September 1553.
AVE, Marie, Queue drowriar of Scotland, be the teuour lieirof grantis ws to haif
ressauit be the hainlis of Stevin Kincaid, in name and behalf of ane nobill and
mychti lord, Jolmne, erle of Sowthirland, the sovme of thre himdreth pundis glide
and vsuall money of Scotland, and that in part of payment of ane gretar sovme
qtihilk the said erle baud and oblist himself with Gilbert, erle of Cassillis, and
Henry, Lord Methven, coninnctlie and seueralie, in the bukia of onre derrest doeh-
teris eounsall, to pay to Timothi Cagnioli, bankonr, nierehand of Florence, for
ws ; and forthir, geif he or thai failyeit in payment, to pay ilk thre moneth or ilk
moneth ane certaue sovme of money as for the profiitt and change of the haill
sovme, or samekill thairof as happynnis nocht to be payit; tharfore we oblissis ws
that geif the said Timothi be nocht pa) it in oure name of the saidis sovmes
restand to him be ws and the said erle in the partis of France, that we sail releif
the said erle and his cautionaris forsaidis of the forsaid sovme of thre himdreth
pundis at the handis of the said Timothi, Lis ah is, executouris, or assignais, and
of all profitt he or thai may craif, ask, or recover vpoun the said erle and cau-
tionary ibrKiidis f'-a the day of the dait of this wryting ford ward as for thre
hundreth pundis and quantite thairof; becaus we haiif ressauit the samyn sovme
of thre hundieth pundis to [toin], and discharged the said erle and his cautionaris
forsaidis of the [samyn], and oblissis ws to releiff him and thame thairof and of
change and proffitt of the samyn fra this ford ward, as said is, be this oure wryting
. of discharge and oblissing, subseriuit with oure hand and vnder oure signete at
Edinburgh, the last day of September, the yeir of God j m v c fifty-thre yeris.
Marie E. '
3. Letter of Pension by Mary of Guise, Queen Dowager of Scotland, to
' John, tenth Earl of Sutherland, of one thousand merks Scots yearly
during her lifetime. 7th July 1555.
Regina. '
We Marie, Qnene Dowarier and regent of the realme of Scotland, for the gnid,
trew, and thankfull service done to ws be oure louitt cousing, Johnne, erle of
Sutherland, in tymes bigane, and to be done be him to ws in tyine cuming, be
1556.] MARY, QVEEX OF SCOTX. 3
the tennour heirof gevis, grautis, and disponis to oure said cousing the sowme of
ane thuii-aiid merkis, v^uale money of the real me of Scotland, to be payit to him
yeirlie during oure Iyfctyme at twa termes in the yeir, Witsonday and Martini es
in wynter, be evin portiones, of the readiest of the mailes, fermes, and dewteis of
oure dowarie, or of oure derrest doehtcris propirtie, be oure comptrollaris,
chalmerlanis, and factouris thairof : chargeing heirfoir oure saidis comptrollaris,
chalmcrlanis, and factouris, to thankfullie ansuer, obey, and mak payment to oure
said cousing of the said sowme yeirlie, at the termes aboue specifeit, of the
reddiest of the mailes, fermes, and vthiris dewteis of the landis abone expremitt ;
and the samyn sail be thankfullie allov.'it to thame in thair coinptis yeirlie, thai
takand oure said cousingis acquittance to schew vpoun compt for thair warrand :
Provyding alwayis that quhat tyme, or how sone it sail pleis ws to gif and
dispone to oure said cousing wardes, marreages, or ony vthir casualitie, or to pro-
vyde ane of his freindis, or vthiris quhilkis he sail name, to ane benefice worth
the said yeirlie pensioun of ane thousand merkis foirsaid, and thai to be maid
sure thairof be ws, in that cais this oure obligation n, gift, and dispositiouu of the
said pensioun to be fra thynefurth null and of nane avale, and oure said cousing
to clame na rycht thairto nor payment of the samyn pensioun ony tyme thaireftir.
In witnes of the quhilk, to thivpresentis, subscriiiit with oure hand, oure signett is
afiixit, at Edinburgh, the sevint day of Julii, the yeir of God ane thousand fyve
hnndreth fyftie and fyve yens. Marie E.
4. Commission by Mary, Queen of Scots, to John, tenth Karl of Suther-
land, to apprehend Xeil M'Kny. Band 1 , I 2th September 1556.
Marie, be the grace of God, Quene of Scottis, to oure louittis
messingeris, our schireffis in that parte, coniunctlie and scueralie, special io
constitute, greting : Forsamekle as it is vnderstand to oure derrest moder and
lordis of oure secrete counsalc that Neill M c Ky and his complices lies maid ^rete
misordour and slauchter in the partis of Straithnaverne, alswele sen the last iustice
air of lnuernes as of before, in hie contemptioun of ws and oure auctorite ; oure will
is heirfoir, and we charge you straitlie, and commandis that incontinent thir oure
letteris sene ye pas, and in oure name and auctoiite command and charge oure
rieht traist cousing, John no, erle of Suthirlaud, to serche, seik, tak, and apprehend
with all possible diligence, the said Xule and his complices, makaris of the said
4 ROYAL LETTERS, WARRANTS, ETC. [1556-
misordour, quhair euir he may apprehend thame, alswele within the bonndis of
StuuLhmv\ erne as SuthirkuJ and vthiiis partis, aut ^ kring thame to oure lawis to
be punist for thair demereitis ■ and to that effect that he rais and convene all
fensable men within the bonndis of Suthirhmd, als wele duel land vponn spiritual 1
mennia landis as temporale ; and gife noid be to assege houssis quhairin thai
salhappin to be, rais fyre, eommitt slauchter and niutilatioun vpoun thame, quliilk
sail neuir be imputt to oure said cousing nor his assistaris as fait or cry me in
tyme cuming ; and in likwyse that ye pas, and in our name and anctorite command
and charge all and sindrie oure liegis within the saidis boundis of Suthirland, be
oppin proclamatioun at all places neidfull, to nis, concur, and pas with oure said
cousing in the executioun of his charge foirsaid as he sail require thame, vnder the
paue of deid j aud siclike command and charge oure said cousing, gife ony persoun
or personis within Suthirland happinnis to help, supple, fortifie, furneis, or ressett
the said Xeill M c Ky, or ony his complices, thair assistaris and parttakaris, that he
tak and apprehend all sic personis and present thame to oure iustiee to be punist
thairfore; and forthir that he himself compeir before oure said derrest moder and
secrete eounsale one Sanet Androis day nixt toeum, gife the said Nele beis nocht
apprehendit betuix aud the said day, to ansuer vpoun his diligence in thir behalfis,
as ye will ansuer to ws thairupoun : The qnhilk to do we eommitt to you eon-
iunetlie and seueralie oure full power be thir oure letteris, deliuering thame be you
deulie execute and indorsate aganc to the berare, gevin vnder our signete at
Eanffe the xij day of September, and of oure rigune the xiiij yeir.
Per Dominam Regentem.
5. Letter by Mary of Guise, Queen Regent of Scotland, to John, tenth Earl
or Sutherland, to apprehend Thomas Robertson, a pirate. 12th March
1557.
IIycht traist COUSING, eftir hartlie commendatioun ; ye sail vnderstand that we
direetit our commissioun to yow and to our traist cousing, the erle of Cathnes, to
tak and apprehend Thomas Robertsone, pyrat, and his complices, qnhair evir ye
may apprehend thame, for sic crymes committit be thamo as is eontenit in the
said commissioun quhilk ye pleis ressaue; and prayis yow to accept and sett
fordwartis the samyne at the vtermaist of your power : And ye doand this we
will esteme yow to haue done to ws acceptable seruiee, of the quhilk we sal ■
15C3.]
ELIZABETH, QUE EX OF ENGLAND.
nocht tyne remembrance, au d God haue [yow] in kepiug. Of Edinburgh the xij
day of ilarclio 1557.
To our ryclit traist eousing, Erie of Suythirland, etc.
C. Elizabeth, Queen of England, to Thomas Randolph, English Resident in
Scotland, regarding the application of John, tenth Earl of Sutherland, for
protection to live in England. 2d September [15G3]. 1
By the Queene.
Tkusty and welbelovid, we greete yow well ; and let yow wite that the Earle of
Eyueux hath shewid vs a letter which his brother, the Earle of Sotherland, hath
written vnto him from Andwerp, to which place he is gone out of Seotland for
such eawsees as yow know. By which letter he desyrethe the Earle of Leneux to
1 Harlehn 113s., No. G9S6, fol. 31.
G ROYAL LETTERS, WARRANTS, ETC. [1503-
procure of vs our protection to lyre in our realme vnder our salvegard ; winch
thing being of importance we haue forborne to answer till we maye upon furder
knowledge resolve therin. And therfore being lothe aswell to do any tiling
herin to the mislyking of the Queene, our good susttr there, as also vuwilling to
betray or refuse to healpe the said gentleman, we haue thought good in respeet
of bothe, and for our honor, and so do will yow to devise by your best meanes to
learne and feele indirectly how our s;ud suster cold be content we shuldc deale
hcerin, if such a request shnlde be made to vs. And lykewise, as of your selfe,
without seeming to do it by our direction or of any from hence, to vmlerstanel the
lylting and devotion of thearle of ilarre and of the [Larde] of [Le]thington
heerin. Ypon knowledge wherof from yow (which we wolde gladly wer speedye)
we will do as our honor, the eommon amy tic and their lyking may beare.
Herwith yow shall reeeyve our letter to our said good suster in the behalf of
Segnor Mcgliorino, wherin we pray yow to deale as ye ar by him instructid,
recommending his case vnto her, as one whome we estcme and thinke meete to be
rcgardid by them there, where lie hath so well deservid. Geven vnder our signet
at our Castel of Wyndesure, the second day of September, the fift yere of our reign.
To our trusty and wclbilouid servaunt, Thomas Randall, Esquier.
7. Mary, Queen of Scots, to Thomas Randolph, English Resident in Seotland,
requiring that John, tenth Earl of Sutherland, be set at liberty. 8th Sep-
tember [1565]. Copy. 1
Trustie and welbeloved, we grete you well. Whereas the Earlo of Sutherlande/a
borne subyect of this our realme, eomynge fro beyonde sea and reparinge towardes
this his native eountrie, is taken, staied and deteyned prysoner at Barwicke, we
mervalle of it in deede, seinge it a thinge lendinge so manyfestlic to the breehc
of the good intelligence betwixt vs and our good sistere, the Queen, your Souarync ;
prainge you therefore that ye will write to the Erie of Eedforde with the berer
hereof that by your letter the said Erie of Sutherlande may be put at libertie and
suffredto departc frelie towardes this our realme without stopc or inquyetacion, as
you will doe vs good pleasure. Subseryuied with our haudc at Glaseoc the viij
of September.
The Queen of Scotts to Thomas Randolphe.
1 Lansclowne mps., No. 8, fol. 121.
1571.] MARY, QUEEX OF SCOTS.
3. -Mary, Queen of Scots, to Elizabeth, Queen of England, complaining that
the Earl of. Sutherland has .been made prisoner at Berwick. 24th Novem-
ber 1565. 1
II [CUT excellent, richt heich and miehtie Princesse, our richt deare suster and
consyu, we commend unto you in our maist harty mauer. Quhairas the Erll of
Sutherland, a borne subject of this oure realme, eunaing from beyond sey, and
reparing towartis his native cuntre, is takin, stayed, and detenit as presoner at
Barwiek, we have thocht gude to signify the same unto you, and in respect of the
gude amytie and peax standing betuix ws and our realmes, hartely to desire you
that it may pleas you to gif strait cornmandiment to your lieutenant officiaris on
the Bordouris, or utheris your subjcctis in quhais handes he is, that immediatlie
thay put him to libertie, and suffer him frelie to depart towartis this realme.
Praying you to cans spedy ordour to be takin heirin, that a thing tending sa man-
festlie to the brek of the gude intelligence butnix ws, as taking of presoners in
tyme of peax, be not permitted, as we salbe willing not oulie to do the like, bot
alsua to omit na gude offices quhairby it may appeare quhat affectioun we beare
to manteane amytie and gude nychbourheid with you and all youris, as the effectis
sail declair. And thus abyding your ansuer with the berair heirof, richt excellent,
richt heich, and miehtie Princesse, oure dearest suster and cousing, we commit yon
to the tuitioun of Almichtie God. Gevm under oure signet, at oure palace of
Halyrudhous, the 24 day of November, and of oure regne the 23th zeir, 1565.
— Your richt gud sister and cusignes, Marie 11.
To the richt excellent, richt heich, and micbtye Princesse, oure dearest suster
and cousin, the Queene of England.
9. Order for a Pension by Mary, Queen of Scots, to Mr. John Gordon,
one of her attendants. Sheffield, 18th September 1571,
La Poyne d'Escosse, Docairiere de France.
Tresorier et reeeueur general de noz finances, Monsieur Bene Dolu, payez, baillez
et deliurez comptant a Monsieur Jean Gordon, vng de noz gentilzhommes seruans,
1 Labanoff's Letters of Mary Stuart, vol. i. p. 307. Original in Public Record Office, London.
ROYAL LETTERS, WARRANTS, ETC. [1571-
la somme de deux cens liures tournoises, et ee pour ses gages et pension que luy
auons ordonnee pour vne an nee entiere, commenceant le premier jour du inoys de
Juillet dernier passe ; laquelle pension entendons luy estre cy apres continued a
ladite raison dc deux cens liures tournoises par an, attendant quil soit couclie en
nostre estat : Et rapportant la presente signee de nostre main auec quictance
duclit Gordon de ladite somme de ij c liures souleuer. Nous voulons icelle estre
passee et allonee en la despence de voz comptes et rabatue de vostre recepte
par noz atnez et feaux les auditeurs comrais ou a commettre alaudition diceux,
ausquils mandons aus le faire sans dificulte. Donne au Chasteau de Cheefeild
en Angleterre le xviij me jour de Septerubre Tan mil cinq cens soixante et l'onze.
H. Paulet.
Indorsed : Mandemeut pour la pension de Monsieur de Gordon.
Translation.
The Queen of Scotland, Dowager of Frauce.
Treasurer and Receiver-General of our rents, Mr. Rene Dolu, pay, give, and
deliver, in ready money, to Mr. John Gordon, one of our gentlemen in waiting, the
sum of two hundred livres tournois, and that for his wages and pension appointed
to him by us, for one whole year, commeneing the first day of the month of July
last past; which pension ^e intend to be continued to him hereafter to the said
amount of two hundred livres tournois yearly until he receive an appointment in
our establishment: Returning these presents, signed with our hand, together with
the acquittance of the said Gordon, to uplift the said sum of two hundred livres.
Moreover, it is our will that this be passed and allowed in your accounting, and
rebated from your receipts by our loved and faithful the auditors commissioners
to whom is committed the auditing thereof; whom we command so to do without
c. 1595.] KING JAMES THE SIXTH. 9
objection. Given at the castle of Sheffield in England, the 18th day of September
in the year one thousand five hundred and seventy-one.
Marie R.
II. Paulet.
Iudorsed : Order for the pension of Mr. Gordon.
10. Warrant by King James tiie Sixth for a Remission to Lady Jane
Gordon, Countess of Sutherland, for intercommuning with George, Earl
ofHuntly. 1594.
OuiiE SOUERANE LORD of his speciall grace and fauouris ordanis ane remissioun
to be maid vnder the greit seill in dew forme to Dame Jehane Gordoun, Countesse
of Sutherland, for Mr tressonabill ressett and iutercommoning with George,
sumtyme erll of Huntlie, and vtheris his Maiesteis declarit tratouris, jesuittis,
excommunicat personis, and vtheris rebellious and vnnaturall subiectis, at diuers
tymes, aganis sindry his Hienes actis, lawis, and proclamationis maid in the
contrair; and for all actioun and cryme that may follow thairupoun, or be irnput
to the said Daine Jehane thairthrow ; and that preceptis be direct ordourlie
heimpoun, with extensioun of all claussis necessar. Subscrinit be oure said
souerane lord at the day of the yeir of God jj m v c
four scoir fourtene yeiris. James R.
11. Licence by King James the Sixth to Lady Jane Gordon, Countess of
Sutherland, to depart from Edinburgh, c. 1595.
"We, be the tennour heirof, gevis and grantis oure licence to Dame Jeane Gordoun,
Countesse of Suthirland, to depairt and pas furth of oure burgh of Edinburgh and
the Cannogait to quhatsomeuir pairtis sho pleissis without ony pane, cryme, skaith,
or dangeir, to be incurrit be hir thairthrou in hir persoue or guidis, nochtwith-
standing of the charge gevin to hir for hir remaning within our said burgh and
the Cannogait, quhill sho wer fred be ws ; anent the quhilk and pane of hoirning
contenit thairintill we dispfens] be thir presentis, subscryuit with our hand
[torn] the day of [torn] James R.
b
10 ROYAL LETTERS, WARRAXTS, ETC. [1507-
15, LicrNcr. liy King James the Sixth to John, twelfth Earl of
Sutherland, to go abroad. 29th October 1507.
Kex.
We be the tennour heirof gevis and grantis licence to oure traist coiuing,
erll of Sutherland, and tlire landit men with him in cumpany to depart and pas
furtb of oure realme to France, Flandirs, or ony vther partes beyond sey, thair to
remane and do thair Iefull erandia and bissyncs at thair pleasour during the space
of fyve veris nixt efter the dait heirof, without ony pane, cry me, danger or
skaith to be incurrit be oure said coining or ony of the tlire landit men foirsaid,
being with him in cumpany, in thair persoms, landis, possessions, offices, guidis
nor geir: And will and grantis that nane of thame sallit [salbe] callit nor aceusit
tbairfore eriminalie nor cinilie be ony inancr of way in tyme aiming, notwith-
standing ony aetis, statutis, letterrs, proclamation^-, speciall or generall, maid in
the contrar or ony panis contenit thairin, anent the quhilkis we dispens be this
present ; disehargeing oure justice, justice clerk, thesanrar, adnocatt, and thair
deputis, and all vtlieris our officers and ministers of oure lawis, of all calling,
accusing, vnlavring or ouywy-e proceding aganis oure said cousing and landit men
in his cumpany as said is, poinding, troubling or ony wy^e intromettiug with
thame thairfore, and of thair offices in that part: Prouiding alwyse that during
thair remaning furth of oure realme thay behave thame selffis as dewtyfull
subiectis to ws, and do nor attempt uathing tending to the preiudice of ws and
oure estate, the religiouu professit within oure realme nor oure subiectis thairof,
vtherwyse this oure licence to be null and of nane avale, force nor effect. Gevin
vnder our signet and subscriuit with oure hand at Lynlythgw the xxix day of
October and of oure reigune the xxxj yeir, 1507.
„ James E.
LeYIXGESTONE. BlANTYRE.
Vequhart. M. J. Elphixstoux. Lenox.
13. King James the Sixth to Mr. John Gordon, — about a monument iu
memory of the Gowrie Conspiracy. Sth July 1G01.
Eight trustie and weilbeloued. we gme yow maist liairtie thankes for your
vertuous and learnit discours and advyse, sa kyndlie set doune anent the remem-
1602.] KIXG JAMES THE SIXTH. 11
berance of sa vyle a conspiracy, quhairin as we allow your lerning, conioyned
with ane inture affection, sa we haue deliberat to cause the memorie of it be con-
secrat to the posterity be a monument answerable to your inuention. And hairing
occasion be this bearer, our maister of wark, quhome we haue directed expresslie
to prouide sic thingis as sould be necessar for the same, we haue willed him to
conferre with yow thairanent that ye may agrie vpon the forme, deuyse and super-
scriptionis, that as the turpitude of the fact is in itselfe detestable, sa the memorie
of it may be transmitted to the posterity in sic forme as may detterre others from
attempting the like. So committing the rest to the sufficiency of the bearer we
bid yow right hartely farewell, from our pallace of Halyrudhous this viij of
Julie 1601.
// --p
Mr. John Gordon. '/ /VTtT^C/O-----^
To our right trustie and weilbeloued Mr, John Gordoun.
14. Licence by King James the Sixth to Eoeert and Alexander Gordon,
brothers of John, twelfth Earl of Sutherland, to go abroad. 25th May
1602.
PI EX.
We be the tennour heirof gevis and grantis to our louittis Iiobert and Alexander
Gordounes, brethreine germane to Gordoun, erle of Sudderland,
scolleris, our speciall licence to pas furth of our real me to the pairtis of France,
Germanie, and vtheris beyond sey, for doing thair lefull effairis, and to re mane furth
thairof for the space of seviu yeiris ; and willis and grantis that thai nor nane of
thame sail incur onie danger, hurt or skaith in thair persoun, laudis or guidis for
thair passing and remaning furth of our realme during the said space : discharge-
ing be thir presentis our iustices, iustice clarkis and thair deputtes, coronellis,
schirefEs, and all vtheris our officearis or ministeris of our lawis within our realme
present and being for the . . . [torn] [a]tteiching, areisting, molesting or
trubling of the . . . of thame thairfoir in tyme cuming, and of thair officfes]
12 ROYAL LETTERS, WARRANTS, ETC. [1602-
. . . provyding that the saidis persoimes do nor attemfpt najthing eoutrair
the religiounas it is in our renlme professit, nor p[rt'iu]ditiall to onr present estait,
or hurtfull to our* croun ; or vtherwayis this present licence to be of nane effect.
Subseryuit with our band and gevin vtider our signet at Drum fe ratling the
tuentie fyve day of Maii, the yeir of God I 1 -' vj° and twa yeiris, and of our regne
the xxxv yeir. James K.
J. Secretar.
This lettre presentit and registrat the day within writtin.
Mr. Robert Young.
15. Licence by King James the Sixth and the Privy Council to John,
twelfth Earl of Sutherland, to go abroad for three years. 22d
January 1611.
James R.
We, vnderstanding that oure right traist cosine, Erll of Sutherland, is subiect to
diuerse diseassis and infirmiteis of body, and tliat for the recoverie of his liolth he
is ad visit to repair to foreyne eountreyis, thairfoir we haif gevin and grantit, and
be the tennour heirof gevis and grantis, oure licence to oure said cosine, the Erll
of Sutherland, to repair and pas furth of oure realmes and dominionis to what-
somevir pairtis beyond sea he pleissis, and to remane furtli thairof for seiking of
ordinarie remeidis for his helth, and doing of his vther affairis, the space of
three yeiris nixtocome eftir the dait heirof, without pane, cry me, skaith, or danger
to be incurrit be him tliairthrou in his persone, landis, or goodis, notwithstanding
whatsomevir oure aetis, statutis, or proclamations maid in the countrair, whair-
anent, and all panes contenit thairintill,we dispense be thirpresentis; dischairgeing
heirby oure justice, justice clerk, thesaurer, aduocat, and all vtheris oure judgeis,
ofiiciaris, and ministeris of oure lawis, off all calling, accusing, or onywayis pro-
ceiding aganis oure said cosine, or internetting with him, his goodis or geir, for
the premissis, and of thair offices in that pairt : Provyding alwise that oure said
cosine, during his absence furth of oure realmis, behave himselff as ane dewtifull
and obedient subiect to ws, and do nor attempt no thing in hurte nor prejudice
of ws, oure realme and estait, nor the trew religioun presentlie proffessit within
this oure realme, vtherwayis this oure licence to be of nane avail). Gevin vnder
1621.] KIXG JAMES THE SIXTH. 13
oure signet at Edinburgh the xxij day of Januar, and of oure regnn the aught
and fourty four yeiris, 1CI 1.
Al. Caxcell 8 . Perthe.
Glasgow.
Lothian e.
S. E. Cokeurne.
J. COKEURNE.
M. G. Young.
Dotso — Apud Edinburgh xxij January 1611 : lied, past, and alio wit in
counsell. J. Prymrois.
This letter presentit and registrat the day withiu writ tin.
Mr. Robert Young.
16. King James the Sixth to the Privy Council of Scotland, — instructing
them to inquire into the right of Sir Robert Gordon to the abbacy of
Glenluce. 29th April 1G21. 1
James R.
Righte Recerende father in God, righte trustie and welbeloued counsellour, and
righte trustie and righte welbeloued cosens and counsellours, wee greetts yow
well : [Our servant] - Sir Roberte Gordon, vnkleto the Earle of Sutherlande, hath
humblie shewed vnto vs that he hath heretable righte to the lining of the abbacie
of Glenluce : — Wee haue therefor though te good by these presentts to require vow
to peruse his enidentes and consider of his title to the said liuing, and according
as yee shall finde him to haue righte, to aduirtyse vs, that wee may giue such
furder order in that mater as shalbe moste agreable to reason. Farewell. Giueu
at our pallace of Whitehall, the 20th of April 1621.
To the righte reuerende father in God, our righte trustie and welbeloued
counsellour, the Arehbishoppe of Saint Andrewes, and to our righte trustie and
righte welbeloued cosens and counsellours, the Earle of Dumfermline, our chan-
cellour, and the Earle of Melros, our priucipall secretarie of our kingdome of
Scotlande.
1 Original letter in volume of Royal Letters, 1617-1C24, in H.M. General Register House,
Edinburgh. 2 Defaced in the original.
H ROYAL LETTERS, WARRANTS, ETC. [1622-
1 7. King James the Sixth to Sir Robert Gordon — promising £2000 sterling
for the abbacy *of Glenluce. 27th October 1G22. [Contemporary copy.]
James R,
Trustie and weilbtdowcd, wc greote yow weell. Our knowlege of the small worth
and rent of the bishoprick of Galloway, not able to mantcyne a bishope in a
qualitie ansuerable to his place, and that respect which we hawc ewer caried to
prowyde and'" establish e mentcnancc for the church, hawing mowed ws to deale
and transact with yow for your right of the ahbacie off Glenluce, of intention to
vnitc the same to the said bishoprick, we hawe thoght fit, alsweell for the better
remembrance of the conditions condescended wpon betwene ws, as also for your
better assurance of our part of the same, heirby to declair, that for your right of
the said abbacie we hawe promesed vnto yow two thowsand pounds Stirling, and
that we ar content that yec reteyne and keip still the right theroff in your
persone, til we pay or cause securitie be maid to yow for the said somrae; wher-
vpon yec ar then laughfullie to resigne and dispone your full right of the said
abbacie in fawours of the said bishope and his successonrs in the bishoprick of
Galloway. So we bid yow fureweell, from our court at Ilcnchinbrook the 27 of
October 1G22.
To our right trustie and weellbelowed Sir Robert Gordone of Kinmonowie,
knight, gentleman of our priwie chalmer, etc.
18. Warrant by King Charles the First for the payment of two thousand
pounds sterling, to Sir Robert Gordon. 24th June 1G32. 1
Charles R.
Our pleasure is that out of the readiest of our present rents or casualties what-
socuer of that our kingdome, or which shall accresse vnto vs hereafter by what-
soeuer nianer of way, yow pay with all diligence vnto Sir Robert Gordon, knight,-
gentleman of our prime chamber in ordinarie, the sowine of Two thousand pounds
Sterlin, 2 and for your so doing these presents shalbe vnto yow and all others
1 Original letter in volume of Royal Letters, 2 These four words in italics are holograph
1625-1632, in H.JSI. General Register House, of the king.
Edinburgh.
1632.] KiyCr CHARLES THE FIRST. \5
whom it may eoncerne, a sufficient "warrant and discharge. Giuen at our manour
of dreemviteh, tV 2 1 of June 1632.
To our right trustie and right welbeloued cousin and counsellor, the Earle
of Morton, our thesaurer of Scotland, and to our riglite trustie and welbeloued
counsellour the Lord of Traquhair, our deputie thesaurer of that our kingdome.
Apud Halyrudhouse —
The Lords nrdayncs ane act and this precept to be registrat with this pro-
visioun that the samyn be takin furth of the copper money allennerly, and no
vther wayis according to his Majesties letter heirwith produced to that effect.
J. Arskine. Marschall. Morton, The,
Sr. Thomas Hop. Linlithgow. Stratiierne.
19. Warrant by King Charles the First for securing to Sir Robert Gordon
the benefit of the fourth part of the copper money towards the payment
of the two thousand pounds lately granted to him. 27th June 1G32. 1
Charles K.
Right trustie and right welbeloued cousin and counsellour, right trustie and wel-
beloued cousins and counsellors, and right trusty and welbeloued eounsellours, wee
greete yow well : Whereas wee haue [been] pleased to grant vnto our right trusty and
welbeloued counsellour, the Viscount of Sterlin, the benefite arising of the copper
money to be eoyned in that our kingdome, according to his patent therevpon, for
his satisfaction for moneyes due vnto him by vs, after deduction whereof with
the charges of the work he is to be aeeomptable vnto vs for the superplus ; and
wee being pleased, vpon good considerations, and with consent of the said Viscount
for his interest, that our servant, Sir Kobert Gordon, haue the fourth pairt of the
free benefite of those copper moneys till he be payed of- two thousand pounds
sterling lately granted to him by our precept, our pleasure is that yow giue
your best assistance herein to the said Sir Robert, and tak such .course as may
be sufficient to enable him, by himself or his assignes, to reeeaue the said fourth
1 Original letter iu volume of Royal Letters, 1625-103*2, in H.M. General Register House,
Edinburgh.
1C ROYAL LETTERS, WARRANTS, ETC. [1632-
pairt till he be payed of the said sowrae, allowing to the said viscount in his
accompts the deduction of the same for that vse ; and for your so doing these
shalbe sufficient wairant. Wee bid yow farewell from our manour of Greenwiteh,
the 27 of June 1G32.
To our right trustie and right welbeloued cousin and counsellour, to our right
trustie and welbcloued. cousins and counsel lours, and to our right trustie and
welbeloued counsellors, the Viscount of Duplin, our chaneeler, the Earle of
Morton, our thesaurer, and remanent nobloinen and others, the Comissioners of
Exchequer of our kingdome of Scotland.
Apud Halynid house, 7 September 1632: Head them, and ordayned to be
recistrat.
20. King Charles the First to John, thirteenth Earl of Sutherland,
about the repairing of the cathedral church of Caithness. 22d June 1634.
Right trustie and welbeloued cousin, wee greets yow well : Whereas wee are
informed that of late a beginning was made in repairing the eathedrall church of
the diocie of Caituesse, wherein wee do commend the endeauours of such as did
contribute to that purpose; but hearing that the bodie of that church is as yet to
sett vp, which will require the assistance of the most able and eminent persones
in that diocie, wee haue hereby thought fitt speciallie to recommend vnto yow to
assist so pious a work by vsing the aduise and direction herein of the reuerend
father in God, the bishop of Caithnesse, and by helping to mak vp sucli a generall
contribution amongst all the inhabitants of that diocie aswilbe sufficient to finish
that work, wherein as yow will show a zcale to Gods seruice so wee will tak it in
verry good pairt at your handes. Wee bid yow fairewell from our manour of
Greenwich the 22 of June 1634.
To our right trustie and welbeloued cousin, the Earle of South erland.
1651.]
KISG CHARLES THE SECOXD.
17
21. King Charlt.s the Second t.o John, thirteenth Earl of Sutherland,
- — desiring him to concur with the Committee of Estates. 28th Julv 1G51.
Udi^
Eight trustie and right welbeloved eossen, wee grecte yow well. Notwith-
standing of the oi'doui'is and letteris sent to yow by the advice of our Committee
of Estates, wee have thoght fitt to add this in particular from our self, to desire
and coniure yow seriously by your owne particular power and interest in the shyrc
to conenrr with the Committee that quhat is apoynted may speedily and effeetu-
allie be put in execution. All is now at the stake, religion, the liberty of this
antient kingdome, our honour and person, your owne particular fortoune, and all
that can be deare to a man of honour. Wee expect at this tyme that yow will
bestirr your sellf, and that yow will considder nothing but quhat may sett vp the
army againe, and make it in condition to protect the partes of the kingdome that
are yett free from the enemy, and with the blessing of God to recover the rest
from the slaverte they ly vnder. Wee are confident yow have so much sense of
the credite of the kingdome and of your owne, and wilbe so worth ie of the honour
of your family, and what yow have inherited from your predieessouris, that wee
shall sie the effects of your dilligence and forwardnes at this tyme, which wee
will allwayes remember very gratio'usly : And so wee bid yow hartily farewell.
Given att our eaurpe at Sterliue this 2S of Julii 1G51, and in the third yeare of
our raigne.
For the Earle off Sutherland. The?.
18 ROYAL LETTERS, WARRANTS, ETC. [1693-
22. Kino Wnxuit the Third to the Frivy Council of Scotland, appoint-
ing two regiments of foot to be raised, of which John, Lord Strathnaver,
and Sir James MoncriefY are to be colonels. 21st February lG92-.°>. 1
Right TRUSTY and right welbeloved cousin and councellor, right trusty and
entirely beloved cousins and councellors, right trusty and right welbeloved
cousius and conncellors, right trusty and welbeloved cousins and councellors,
right trusty and right welbeloved councellors, right trusty and welbeloved
councellors, and trusty and welbeloved councellors, wee greet you well.
Whereas wee have given commission to our right trusty and welbeloved coun-
cellor, John, Lord Strathnaver, and to our right trusty and welbeloved Sir
James Moncreife, to be colouells of our new regiments of ffoot, which wee do
appoint to be raised and leaned in our ancient kingdom of Scotland, and to be
transported thence, for our service, to our kingdom of Ireland, whereby, in the
meantime, our subjects in Scotland will be in the greater security : It is our will
and pleasure, and wee do require you to allow drums to be beat for raising the
foresaid regiments, and that you give all the encouragement and assistance to
those officers in the prosecution of this our service : and so wee bid you heartily
ffarewcll. Given at our court at Kensiugtoun the 21st day of February 1G9§,
and of our reign the 4th year. — By his Majesties command.
Jo. Dalrymple.
To our right trusty and right welbeloved cousin and councellor, our right
trusty and entirely beloved cousins and councellors, our right trusty and right
welbeloved cousins and councellors, our right trusty and welbeloved cousins
and councellors, our right trusty and right welbeloved councellors, our right
trusty and welbeloved councellors, and our trusty and welbeloved councellors,
1 Original letter in volume of Royal Letters in H.M. General Register House, Edinburgh.
169-1.] FERDINAND WILLIAM, DUKE OF WIRTEMBERG.
10
John, Earle of Tweeddale, our chancellor, and the rest of the lords of our privy
eouneell of our ancient kingdom of Scotland.
25 February 1G93 : Read and ordered to be recorded.
23. Orders by King William the Third to John, Lord Strathnayee,
afterwards fifteenth Earl of Sutherland,— to obey the orders
of Count Tyan. Roosbecck, 1 9th June 1 G9 1.
Syne Majesteut last eiide beveelt hiermede den Coronel Strathnever offe deu
officier commaiiderende't regiment althaus in Gent, te achtervolgeu en naer te
komen de ordres die den IP 3 Grave Tijan aen hem sal komen te geven.
Gedatu in't leger bij Ruosbeeck den 19° Junii 1694. Willi All R.
Ter ordre van sijne Majesteijt. J- Huijcens.
Translation.
His ilAJESTY allows and commands by these presents Colonel Strathnaver, or
the officer commanding the regiment presently in Ghent, to be guided by and
obey the orders which Ins highness Count Tyan shall give him. Given at the
camp of Roosbeeck the 19th June 1C94. William R.
By command of His Majesty. J- HuiJGENS.
24. Ferdinand William, Duke of Wirtemberg, to John, Lord Strath-
naver, afterwards fifteenth Earl of Sutherland,— to march at the
orders of the Count de Thian. 23d August 1C94.
Mylord,— Sa Mayeste m'a ordonne de vous advertir de marcher aux ordres de
Comte de Thian, aussy tot qu'il vous l'ordonnera, en luy obeissant en tout. J'espere
d'avoir bientot 1 l'honneur de vous voir, etant, my lord, votre treshumble serviteur,
Ferdinand Gvillaume,
Due de Wirttemberg.
Ligne pres d'Ath, le 23 Aovst 1694.
A my Lord Strenever, colonel d'infanterie de sa Mayeste Brittanique au camp
de Mariekerque.
1 This word is partly deleted.
20
ROYAL LETTERS, WARRANTS, ETC.
["1694-
Translation.
My Lord, — His Majesty has commanded me to inform you that you are to
march at the orders of Count of Thian, as soon as he shall communicate the
same to you, giving obedience to him in all things. I hope soon to have the
honour of seeing you, being, my lord, your very humble servant,
Ferdinand William,
Duke of Wirttemberg.
LigDe near Ath, the 23d of August 1G94.
To my Lord Strathnaver, colonel of infantry of his Brittanic Majesty at the
camp of Mary kirk.
25. The Same to The Same, — giving him leave to return home.
4th December 1694.
Mylord, — Ayant recu reponse sur la lettie que j'auois ecrite au Iioy, touchaut
la permission qu'il vous a plu demander pour aller au pais, et sa Majesty l'ayant
agre£, vous pnurrez vous disposer pour votre voyage, pour partir qnand bou vous
semblera. Je suis d'ailleurs tres siuctremeut, monsieur, votre treshurable ser-
vlteur, Ferdinand Gvillaume,
Due de Wirttemberg.
A Gand, ce 4 e Deccmbre 1G94.
Pour mylord Strah never.
Translation.
" Ghent, the 4th of December 1694.
My Lord, — Having received a reply to the letter which I wrote to the king
respecting the permission which you were pleased to ask to return to your
country, and his Majesty having agreed thereto, you are at liberty to arrange for
your journey, and to set out whenever it seems good to you. I am always very
sincerely, sir, your very humble servant,
Ferdinand William,
Duke of Wirttemberg.
For my Lord Strathnaver.
1696.] FERDIXAXD WILLIAM, DUKE OF WIRTEMBEEG.
21
26. Pass by Ferdinand William, Duke of Wirtemeeiig and Teck, to John,
Lord Siratiinayeti, to go to England. 13th December 1 694.
Par la grace de Diev, novs, Ferdinand Gvillavme, Due de Wirtemberg et Teck,
Prince de l'Empire, Comte de Mombeliard, Seigneur de TIeydenheini, general de
l'infanterie, et colonel aux gardes de leur Maj^stez, etc.
LaUsez seurement et librement passer my Lord Stratlmever, qui auec permis-
sion de sa Majeste, s'en va en Angleterre auec huit valets on domestiques, sans
lui faire on douner aucun empechement. Fait a Gaud ce 13 Decembris 1694.
(0itx ^^y^l^ft^^cJ^
Translation.
By the grace of God, we, Ferdinand William, Duke of Wirtemberg and Teck,
Prince <Tf the Empire, Count of Montbeliard, Lord of lleydcnheim, general of
infantry, and colonel of their Majesties' guards, etc.
Permit safely and freely to pass my Lord Stratlroaver, who has the permission
of his Majestv to go to England with eight valets or domestics, without making
or givimr him any hindrance. Given at Ghent the 1 3th December 1 694.
Ferdinand William,
Duke of Wirtemberg.
27. The Same to The Same —his charge as Brigadier and about his passport.
AGand,le 5 Janvier 1696.
Mylord,— L'honneur de la votre m'a ete bien rendue, et en reponse je vous dois
assurer que je ne manqueray point de representor a sa Majeste le droit que vous
avez a la charge de Brigadier. Le passeport demands sera expedie incessament.
22 ROYAL LETTERS, WARRANTS, ETC [169G-
\\\ \\}\\i pric d'.ulh-ur.^ de continucr a me commnniquer de temps en temps ce qui
so p^j-e d.ms vcw quartiers, ct d'entre persuade de hi passion sincere avec laquelle
'y. *\nt f iinlortl, voire ties humble serviteur,
Ferdinand Gvillaume,
Due de Wirtemberg.
Translation.
Ghent, the 5th January 1696.
Mv l.-»ni>,— The honour of yours has been duly delivered to me, and in reply I
inn.-t a.^ure you that I shall not fail to represent to his Majesty the claim which
you have to the post of brigadier. The passport requested will be expedited
f"iihwif!i. AKo be pleased always to continue, informing me from time to time
of \\\\:\l takes place in your quarters, and be persuaded of the sincere esteem with
which 1 am, my lord, your very humble servant,
Ferdinand William,
Duke of Wirtemberg.
26, The Same to The Same, — about Cantonments for his regiment.
16th March 1G96.
MvioKb, — Je viens de recevoir l'honneur de la votre par les mains de 1'expres
qu'il vou.i a plu ni'envoyer, et &uis tres fache de ne pouvoir remedier h present a
ce qu'il vuus phut me deniander, ;\ cause de ee que les regiments de Hannover,
q::i f-jht ordonm's pour le Cammerlingh, ne pcuvent pas e*tre mis en aucune
^•Arnison de ville en Flandres, en vertu de leur capitulation. Outre que le Briga-
Jii r St. I'aul viendra lui memo en personne auec le regiment. Pour ce qui est
«h- quart ier.i dans la ville, vous pourrez faire prendre les logements qu'ont eu
!r<* 9u0 homines commanded d'autant que le regiment de Zoutelande ne pourra
tcnir eii.Jt. Au reste j'espere d'avoir d'autres occasions plus favorables pour vous
I-otivoir tetnoigncr la passion que j'ay d'etre, mylord, votre treshurable et tres-
oU.i«aut serviteur. Ferdinand Gvillaume,
Due de Wirttemberg.
A MidJelbourg le 16 e de Mars 1696.
1714.] EI KG GEORGE THE EIUST. 23
Translation.
My Lord, — I have just received the honour of yours by the hands of the* express
whom you were pleased to send to me, and much regret that it is not in my power
at present to remedy what it has pleased you to ask of me, as the Hano-
verian regiments appointed for the Cammerliugh cannot be garrisoned in any of
the towns of Flanders in respect of their capitulation. Besides that, the Brigadier
St. Paul will come himself in person with the regiment. In regard to quarters
iu the town, you can cause take the lodgings which have been bespoken for the
nine hundred men, as the regiment of Zouteland cannot come so soon. For the
rest I hope to have other occasions more favourable when I shall be able to mani-
fest the desire I have to be, my lord, your very humble and very obedient servant,
Ferdinand William,
Duke of Wirtemberg.
From Middelbourg, the 10th of March 160G.
29. King George the First to John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, — to
attend the King's Coronation. Gth October 1714.
§JUng£-.Q[__
Eight TRUSTY and right welbeloved cousin, we greet you well. Whereas the
20th day of this instant October is appointed for the royal solemnity of our
coronation ; these are to will and command you (all excuses set apart) to make
your personal attendance on us, at the time abovo mentioned, furnished and
appointed as to your rank and quality appertained, there to do and perform all
such services as shall be required and belong unto you ; whereof you are not to
fail : and so we bid you most heartily farewell. Given at our Court at St.
James's, the 6th day of October 1714, in the first year of our reign.
By his Majestie's command,
Suffolk M.
Earl of Sutherland.
24 ROYAL LETTERS, WARRANTS, ETC. [1715.
30. John, ititeenth Earl of Sutherland, to King George the First —
excusing himself for not being present in Parliament. 7th April 1715.
QuOiQUE J'avois le bonheur il 'avoir part an sensible plaisir des tous veritablcs
Bretons de voir votre Majesty agreer la eonronne, j'ai a regret de force de me
dispenser jusqu'ici de riionneur d'aussi voir votre jMajesttS an milieu de votre
parlement, assis snr le trone des vos aucetres ; ajant p:u* un aeces de goute et une
multiplicity des affaires, causee par la mort de ma mere depuis pen, et mon long
absence de ce pais, et6 oblige malgre mea inclinations de retarder mon voiage si
long terns.
Les epreuves qui j'ai toujours taehe" de donner du mon zele pour votre serenis-
sime famille, sont des telles marques du mon attaehement inviolable au service de
votre Majestu, que j'espeie personue n'attribueroit mon absence h present au
manque du devoir. Mais eomme chaeun a ses enuemis, je me crois oblige d'en
communiquer a votre ]\Iajeste les veritables causes, espC-rant que votre bonte par-
donnera cette hardiesse, eomme je sais que les ealomnies ne font point la moindre
impression sur le eceur de votre Majeste" au prejudice des vos fidelles sujets, dont
j'ose dire, qu'iJ n'y a pas uu plus sincere et respectueux que
Indorsed : A double of my letter to the king about the 7th of February 1715.
Another copy. Indorsed : A coppy of my letter to the king on the 7th Aprile
1715.
Translation.
Although I had the happiness to participate in the sensible joy of all true
Britons at seeing your Majesty accept the crown, I regret having been obliged to
exempt myself hitherto from the honour of also seeing your Majesty, in the midst
of your Parliament, seated upon the throne of your ancestors, as by a fit of
the gout, and a multiplicity of business, caused by the recent death of my mother,
and my long absence from this country, I have been obliged, in spite of my
inclinations, to postpone my journey so long.
The proofs which I have always endeavoured to give of my zeal for your
exalted family, are such marks of my inviolable attachment to the service of your
Majest} r that I trust no one will attribute my absence at present to any failure in
duty. But as every one has his enemies, I have thought it incumbent on me to
1715.] KJXG GEORGE THE FIRST. 25
communicate to your Majesty the true reasons, hoping that your goodness will
pardon this boldness as I know that calumnies do not make the least impression
upon the heart of your Majesty to the prejudice of your faithful subjects, of whom
I venture to say there is no one more sincere and respectful than
31. Instructions by King George the First to John, fifteenth Earl of
Sutherland, as Lord-Lieutenant of Sutherland, etc. 25th August
1715.
George R.
Instructions for our right trusty and right well beloved cousin, John, Earl
of Sutherland, whom we have appointed lord-lieutenant of the shires
of Caithnes, Sutherland, Morray, Nairn, Ross and Cromartie. Given
at our court at St. James's the 25th day of August 1715, in the
second year of our reign.
1. You are forthwith to name and constitute proper persons to be your deputy-
lieutenants, taking care that the number of the said deputy-lieutenants for each
shire be from six to twelve (and no more), iu proportion to the extent of the
respective shires whereof you are lieutenant.
2. You are not to appoiut any officer to be a deputy-lieutenant who is under
the degree of a major, or captain of a troop.
3. You are likewise forthwith to name and constitute such a number of
officers, in their respective ranks, as is proportionable to the fensible men
within the said shires whereof you are lieutenant, which can with ease and
without great interruption from their ordinary occupations be assembled ; and in
order to this you may have some regard to the numbers of the militia of Scotland,
but not such as to restrain you from making such deviations from it as from the
circumstances of the shires whereof you are lieutenant may appear to you to be
proper and useful to the government, in regard that all the fensible men are
bound by law to obey you as their lieutenant in defence of the kingdom.
4. You are to observe the utmost precaution and impartiality in the naming
your deputy-lieutenauts and officers, so that they may not only be the most
capable, but likewise those who are and have been of the greatest aud most
D
2fi
ROYAL LETTERS, 1VARRAXTS, ETC.
[1715.
known zeal, before our accession to the crown, for the Protestant succession as
established by law, such only being fit to be trusted with the defence of our person
and government who have been always ready to maintain the Protestant religion
and their own liberties.
5. Yon are likewise to take a peculiar care in the naming your deputy-lieu-
tenants and officers, so as to avoid and prevent any differences and competitions
between the heritors, which might not only produce many difficulties in the
execution of this trust reposed iu you, but maybe verry prejudicial and disadvan-
tageous to our service.
G. You are at all times to avoid the summoning, calling out, assembling, dis-
ciplining, or arming any of the fensible men or heritors, concerning whom there
can be any doubt as to their affection to our government.
7. You are to take care that each battallion consist of a colonel, lieutenant-
colonel, major (who shall have no 'companies), ten captains, ten lieutenants, ten
ensigns, twenty sergeants, twenty corporals, ten drums, an adjutant, and a quarter
master, and about four hundred private men ; and if yon shall find it expedient
to form any body of horse, each troop is to consist of a captain, lieutenant, cornet,
quarter master, two corporals, and about forty private men.
8. So soon as you have appointed your deputy-lieutenants and officers, you
are to transmit a list of the same to our principal Secretary of State.
9. Y'ou are to take care to form all the fensible men whom you shall be fully
convinced are well affectioucd to our government into battallions and squadrons,
according to the methods above mentioned; and in case of any rebellion or foreign
invasion you are immediately to assemble them, and yon are also in this case to
observe such directions as you shall receive from the commander-in-chief for the
time being in Scotland.
10. In case of the junction of the fensible men or militia of more shires or
stewaTdries than one, the lieutenants shall have the command by the day alterna-
tively, and the lieutenant of the shire or stewardry which stood first in the Rolls
of Parliament of Scotland shall have the first dayes command, and so on in that
order so long as the lieutenancies shall continue iu conjunction.
11. You are upon all occasions to execute this trust reposed in you with as
little expence to our subjects as is possible.
By his Majesty's command,
James Stanhope.
'■<&)
iiv^ ■<& ttr %y<&*-*>**?>- y^ptf
<t&y.
■&&*%
V
tv^£j>y
^<^^i^y jc&sf ez<sw^£<?/ ^&j&f>^ t£^r*^~& <&**>d?«T?<s t*C*-s^?
V.
1716.] KIXG GEORGE THE FIRST. 27
32. King George the First to John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland,—
thanking him for his defence of Inverness, etc.
St. James, le 17° Janvier 17 1G.
Mylord Comte de Sutherland. — Ayant appris de divers eudroits les bons
services que vous me rendez et les sages dispositions que vous avez faites pour
maintenir le poste important d' Invernes, je nay pas voulu manquer a me
servir de l'oeeasion qui se presente de vous asseurer, que je suis fort sensible A des
services si utiles, et que vous pouvez compter, que je ne les oubliray point.
J'espere que vous les eontinuerez avec plus d'attention que jamais a present que
mon armee est sur le point de marcher contre les rebelles. Je nedoute pas, que le
vaisseau qui vous porte des amies et de l'argent ne soit arriv£ aupres de vous. Sur
quoy je prie Diea, mylord Comte de Sutherland, qu'il vous tienne en sa sainte et
digne garde. George it.
A my lord Comte de Sutherland, a Inverness.
Translation.
St. James's, 17th January 1716.
My Lord Earl of Sutherland,— Having been informed from several quarters
of the good services which you. are rendering me, aud of the skilful dispositions
you have made to defend the important post of Inverness, I did not wish to fail
in taking advantage, of an opportunity that presents itself to assure you that I
am very sensible of sen-ices so useful, and you may depend upon it I shall never
forget them. I hope you -will continue them with more attention than ever,
now when my army is upon the point of marching against the rebels. I do
not doubt but the ship which carries arms and money for you will have arrived
near you. Whoreupon, my lord Earl of Sutherland, I pray God to have you in
his holy and gracious keeping. George R.
To my lord Earl of Sutherland, at Inverness.
33. John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to King George the First, —
in answer to the previous letter; and expressing his loyalty to the
King's person. 7th February 171C.
Sire, — L'attachement que j'ay toujours eu pour la religion efc les liberies de mon
pays, ne m'engage pas plus inviolablement, par mon devoir, aux interest[s] de votre
28 ROYAL LETTERS, WARRAXTS, ETC. [1716.
Majesty qui est le seul soutient, que la bonte avec la quelle votre Majestti rae
fait 1'lioimeur de -prendre garde a mes pettits services, m'oblige pour jamais
d'exercer tontes les facultes dc mon arac, pour le service de rnon soveruign.
Si mon zele pouvoit etre plus aninie et ardent qu'il n'est, vous en avez, sire,
trouver le secret. Votre Majeste* l'approuve et eela en est assez. Personne ne
peut prornetre du succes, rnais je puis f ranchmen t m'engager que les memes
principes de fidelity et d'affection qui m'out tonjouis conduit dans mon devoir
envers la personne sacree et l'auguste maison dc votre Majeste ne me permetteront
jamais de relentir dans l'ouvrage glorieux de porter l'heureusc epee de votre
Majeste eontre les ennernis de Dieu et mon roy, jmqu'a ee que je voy nos pari-
eide[s] denatures mis en confusion, ou que je perisse dans Fenterprise. Que le
Dieu tout puisant benisse et conserve le defenseur des ses interests.
Indorsed : A coppy of my answer to the king's letter of the 7th of February
1716, from London, dated the 17th of January 1716. From Invernes.
Translation.
Sire, — The attachment that I have always had to the religion and liberties of
my country do not engage me more inviolably by my duty to the interests of
your Majesty, who is their only support, than the goodness with which your
Majesty has done me the honour to take notice of my little services, obliges me
for ever to exert all the powers of my mind for the service of my sovereign.
If my zeal could be made more animated and ardent than it is, you, sire,
have found the secret of doing so. Your Majesty approves of it, and that is
enough. No person ean promise success ; but I can frankly engage that the
same principles of fidelity and affection which have always guided me in my
duty towards the sacred person and the august house of your Majesty will never
permit me to slacken in the glorious work of bearing the fortunate sword of your
Majesty against the enemies of God and my king, until the time that I see our
unnatural parricides put into confusion, or that I perish in the attempt. May
God Almighty bless and protect the defender of his cause.
1717.] JOIIX, FIFTEENTH EARL OF SUTHERLAND.
34. John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to King George the First, — that
disaffected persons should be dismissed from the army. 19th March
1716-17.
Sire, — La goute ne me tourment plus que la chagriu d'etre liors d'etat de rendre
a votre Majesty mes devoirs comme la conjuoucture presente demande de toutes
vos fidellcs sujetes ; mais j'espere que Dieu, qui m'empecheoit d'avoir aucoune
maladie quant je etoit dans les inontagnes d'Ecosse coutrc les rebelles, me remet-
tera dans une etat a 1 contribuer a vous faire, sire, triompher sur toutes yds
crmemis.
II y a deux annees que je pris la liberie - de dire a votre Majeste qu'il t-toit
pour votre service de congedier tout ceux qui n'etoit bien intentione a votre service
hors de Fannie. Je trouve que trope de cette sort eucors, et asture il n'e[s]t pas
le temps d'avoir les iudifferentes, beauconp moins de mal affectione" a votre
government et person royal ; et ceux qui remplusse leurs postes, avec tout sumis-
s,iou, doive etre de gens de resolution et d'experience aussi bien que tres afTectione.
au service de votre Majeste. Car une seigneur pent meriter bien d'etre le chef
d'une bal qui sera nulment propre pour prendre une Suedois par la barbe.
Sire, les pairs de la Graud Eretaign sont fait ou nais conseliers du leur roys, et
aiusi il[s] out pas seulment lc privilege, mais il e[s]t leur devoir, de doimer leurs
sentiments au leur soverain quant out le trouve necessaire. Si jay exec-de mes
homes, votre Majeste auroit la bonte de l'attribuer, comme effeetivemeut il e[s]t,
de ma zele et affection pour votre sacree person, etant tout ma vie avec tout le
respect, tout le devoir, et tout la devotion possible, sire, de votre Majeste le tres
humble, tres obeissant, et trus fulelle sujet et serviteur.
Marlborugh Street, 19 of March 1716-7.
Indorsed : Coppy of rny letter to the king, 19th of March 17-1 7-
Translation.
Sire, — The gout does not torment me more than the regret I feel at not being
in a condition to discharge my duty to your Majesty, as the present crisis demands
of all your faithful subjects ; but I trust that God, who kept me from having any
1 "Redonnera bicntot dans mes forces pour" is interlined here as an alternative phrase.
30 ROYAL LETTERS, WARRANTS, ETC. [1717.
sickness when I was in the mountains of Scotland against the rebels, will restore
me to a condition- to assist you. sire, in triumphing over all your enemies.
Two years ago I took the liberty of sajing to your Majesty that it would
be for your interest to dismiss from the army such as are not well inclined to
your service. I find there are too many of that kind still, and this is not the
time to have indifferent, much less disaffected, persons to your government and
royal person there ; while those who fill their posts should, with all submission,
be men of resolution and experience, and also- well-affected to your Majesty.
For a lord may deserve to be the chief of a ball who will be no way proper to
take a Swede by the beard.
Sire, the peers of Great Britain are made or born councillors of their kings,
and so they have not only the privilege, but it is their duty to state their opinions
to their sovereign when they find it necessary. Jf I have exceeded my bounds,
your Majesty will have the goodness to ascribe it, as indeed it is due, to my zeal
and affection for your sacred person, being all my life with all respect, all duty,
and all devotion possible, sire, your Majesty's most humble, most obedient, and
most faithful subject and servant.
Marlborough Street, 19th of March 1716.
35. John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to King George the First, —
that the gout had prevented him from congratulating the King on the
anniversary of his coronation. Hist October 1717.
Sire, — II y a pas nu au monde qu'auroit felicite votre Majeste sur le jour,
anniversaire de votre couronment avec plus de plaisir et satisfaction que moy, si
la goute no m'auroit pas empesche. Je a rai&on entre ces autres bien faites, de
rendre grace au bon Dieu, que dans les occassious plus perrelieux pour votre
service il a toutjours eu le bonte de me soutenir en bon saute. Comrae j'avois le
houneur porter I'ep^e de la justice devant votre Majeste le jour de votre couron-
ment, je suis toutjours pret, Tepee a la main, dc risquer la vie contre touts vos
enimis, taut secrete que avouez; ettant par les liens d'inclinatioh et d'affection
aussi bien que devoir, avec une attachment inviolable, sire, du votre Majeste", le
tres fidelle, tres humble et tres obeissant sujet et serviteur.
Londors, 21 mc d'Octobre 1717.
Indorsed : My letter to the king the 21st of October 1717.
1717.] JOHN, FIFTEEN Til EARL OF SUTHERLAND. 31
Translation.
Sike, — There is no one in the world who would have congratulated your
Majesty on the anniversary of the day of your coronation with more pleasure and
satisfaction than T, if the gout had not prevented me. I have cause, among these
other benefits, to give thanks to the good God, that in occasions of greater peril
for your service he has always had the goodness to sustain me in good health. As
I had the honour to bear the sword of justice before your Majesty on the day of
your coronation, I am always ready, sword in hand, to venture ray life against all
your enemies, both secret and avowed, being by the bonds of inclination and of
affection, as well as of duty, with an inviolable attachment, sire, your Majesty's
most faithful, most humble, and most obedient subject and servant.
London, the 21st of October 1717.
36. John, fifteenth Karl of Scthekiand, to George, Trince of Wales,
afterwards King George the Second, — his devotion to the Eoyal
family. 10th November 1 717. Draft.
MAY IT please your Royall Highnes, I dout regrait my sicklies upon any
account soe much as that it has deprived me o[ the pleasure of congratulating his
Majesty upon the anniversary of his corrouation, your royall highnes upon
that of your birth, and since then that of wishing your highnes joy of the
princesses safe and happy delivery of a prince, soe much to the satisfaction of all
true Brittaines. I take the liberty of writting (because I cannot) 1 because the gout
hinders me in person from assuring your royall highnes that as I firmly espoused
the interest of your most serene family befor wee were soe happy as to have it
upon the throne, and which I have made my bussines still since to support with
(all possible) 1 undaunted zeal, which none can call in question, but such as att
bottom your highnes shall find as much your enimys as mint 1 , soe, I resolve, to
persist and goe on in venturing my life and all that is dear to man, in his
Majestys service and your royall highueses, ther being none with greater duty or
a profounder respect then I, may it please your highnes, your royall highnesses
most devoted, most faithfull, and most obedient humble servant.
Marlborugh Street, 10 November 1717.
Indorsed: My letter to the Prince the 10th November 1717.
1 Interlined.
32 ROYAL LETTERS, WARRANTS, ETC. [1727-
37. Jonx, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to Frederick-Lewis, Prince of
"Wales,— that he had been much gratified to receive the Prince's letter.
26th May 1727, o.S. Draft.
May IT please your royall liighnes, besides the honour your highnes did me by
your letter of the 27th N.S., it afforded me the greatest pleasure and satisfaction
imaginable, having read in the newes papers of your royall highnesses being
indisposed, and by your letter I was satisfied you were recovered, if ill. I hope
my grandson has payed his duty to your royall highnes by this time, not having
heard from him since he left Paris. I am, with the profoundest respect possible,
may it please your highnes, your royall highnesses most faithfull and most
obleidged humble servant.
London, 26 of May, O.S., 1727.
38. John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to Frederick-Lewis, Prince of
Wales, — asking his influence for his election as a representative peer.
26th July, o.s., 1727. Draft.
May it please your royall highnes, the honour I had of a letter from your
royall highnes by my grandson I tooke as a great favor, and ane addition to the
many obligations I lye under to your highnes ; and the account yeu are pleased to
give me of his conduct, as approven of by your royall liighnes, affordes me a
great deal of satisfaction. My family was still devoted to your illustrious house. 1
My father came over with King William, when Prince of Orange, att the Revolu-
tion in 1698 [1688], and my son was along with me in 171f- to suppress the
unnaturall rebellion, and I hope your highnes doubts not but my grandson will
follow our footsteps. Soe much zeall and affection in a family I hope will not be
forgotten. Ther is ane appearance of a great struggle in electing the sixteen
peers for North Brittain, ther number being soe great, and the elected soe few.
This makes me presume to entreat the favor of your royall highnes to be soe
good as to recomend to the queen (after what manner your highnes shall think
most proper) the supporting of my interest ; for what noise wold it make in the
1 A duplicate copy of this draft has a few reads, "It is natural for ua to be devoted to
unimportant variations. This sentence in it your illustrious house."
17 27.] JOHX, FIFTEENTH EARL OF SUTHERLAND. 33
world, should I be droped to please others, who never did any thing for the ser-
vice of ther king and country, and who are not more capable then I and mine
are. 1 I most humbly beg your royall highnes pardon for the liberty I take, and
entreat that you will have the goodnes to forgive me, since my being neglected
att this time wold be fa tall to, may it please your royal! highnes, etc.
l'lease to accept of my grandson's most devoted service and respects.
London, 23 July, O.S., 172 7.
Indorsed : A coppy of my letter to Prince Frederick.
39. John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to Frederick-Lewis, Prince of
"Wales,— requesting the Prince to make his grandson one of his bed-
chamber. ZW1727. Draft.
May it please your royall highnes, I had not been wanting in my duty of
waiting of your royall highnes, but that I have been confined this mounth by
the gout. My grandson has had ane ague and feaver, which detained him in
Scotland, and made him very nueasie that he could not be able [to] wait of your
royall highnes sooner. When he went to Hannover to pay his duty to you ther,
I beged the favor of your royall highnes to honour him with making him one of
your family (bed-chamber inkrlined). Your royall highnes was soe good, as by
yours of the 27th of May 17 27, to say that you should be glad to doe for him,
but that the making your family was not yett come. Now in cousideration of
mine and family s zeal for and service to your royall highnes most august house,
I hope you will be pleased to make him one of your bed-chamber, which will be
ane inducement for others to follow our example, and soc increase the number of
your freinds.
1 In the duplicate this sentence reads, to the king, j T our grandfather, but in being
" Neither are they so capable a3 I and my against the late Viscount Bollingbrooke'a
family are." Then the following sentence is return to EnglanJ, esteeming him still as
interjected, "I never differed in one vote in great ane enimy to king and goverment as
parliament from what might seem agreeable ever."
;u
ROYAL LETTERS, WARRANTS, ETC.
[1727-
40. King George the Second to John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland,
— dispensing with his attendance at the Coronation. 0th October 1727.
RlGirr trusty and right well beloved cousin, we greet you well. It haveing
been represented unto us that you cannot without great prejudice attend at the
royal solemnity of our and the queen's coronation, on the eleventh of October
instant, we have therefore thought fitt, and accordingly do hereby, dispence with
your attendance upon that occasion; and so we bid you most heartily farewell.
Given at our Court at St. James's, the ninth day of October 1727, in the first
year of our reign.
By his Majesty's command,
Sussex M.
To the Earl of Sutherland.
41. William, Duke of Cumberland, to William, sixteenth Earl of
Sutherland, — instructing him to take measures to capture Lord Lovat.
Inverness, the 23d April 1746.
My Lord Sutherland, — I have received your letter of the 19th from Pun-
robine Castle, and desire you would place your self with your men at the head of
Lord Lovat's and the Chishulm's country, and trie if Lord Lovat is to be catch'd
that way, and likewise that in your passage you would take proper notice of such
of the M'Kenzies as have been in the rebellion.
I J h to
Q^ ^
i *
s
^V\
<r >> f^ s
It
£s&^
^ ■> S ■ S • f
/ A- r A-J ^c y^-^i zp £ *^ ls??^ A-~*S c-/JZz> esrj- c/^r^
S^tz
^- ai ^^^-M--« M&J {5SSswa«
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170259S
1759.] KING GEORGE THE SECOND. 35
]\Ir. Dundas has the necessary orders from me to assist your country with
corn as far as it may be in his power, so you will explain your self to him as to
particulars.
I am, your affectionate friend,
William.
42. The Same to The Same, — in reference to the pursuit of Lord Lovat.
Inverness, April the 24, 174G.
Mv Lord Sutherland, — I have had information that Lord Lovat and his
son are lurking in and about the woods of Glenmorison. I therefore desire you
would put your people upon the search in the mcyt c:irefull and diligent manner,
and that you would give the directions in what methods this pursuit may be
carried on with the greatest prospects of success, towards which I am sure you
will not be wanting in your own person to give all possible furtherance. I have
sent Major Caul field to assist you, who will obey you in all things.
I am, your affectionate friend,
William.
43. Frederick, Prince of Wales, to William, sixteenth Earl of
Sutherland, — assuring him of his affection.
Leicester House, January the 26th, 1748.
My Lord, — I am glad to see by your letter you are well ; your sentiments to
me and your country are known, and you '11 all ways find in me the same affec-
tionate Frederick P.
44. Orders by King George the Second to William, seventeenth Earl
of Sutherland, for raising a battalion of Highlanders. 11th August
1759. Copy.
George R.
Whereas we have thought fit to order a battalion of highlanders to be forthwith
raised under your command — which is to consist of nine companies, of four scr-
36 ROYAL LETTERS, WARRANTS, ETC. [1759-
jeants, four eorporals, two drummers, and erne hundred private men in cadi,
besides commission. officers, with two pipers to the grenadier company, which
men are not to be sent out of Great Britain, and to he entitled to their discharge
in three years, or at the end of the war ;— these are to authorize you by beat of
drum, or otherwise, to raise so many voluntiers (being Highlanders) in the counties
of Sutherland and Caithness, ami in places adjacent, known to be well affected, as
shall be wanting to compleat the said battalion to the above mentioned numbers.
And all magistrates, justices of the peace, constables, and other our civil officers,
whom it may concern, are hereby required to be assisting unto you in providing
quarters, in pressing carriages, and otherwise as there shall be occasion.
Given at our court at Kensington this 11th day of August 1759, in the
thirty-third year of our reign.
By his Majesty's command,
Barrington.
(A true copy)
Thos. Tyrwhitt.
To our right trusty and right well beloved cousin William, Earl of Suther-
land, lieutenant-colonel, commandant of a battaliou of highlanders, or to the
officer appointed to raise men for our said battalion.
45. Augustus-Frederick, Duke of Sussex, to George, first Duke of
Sutherland,— congratulating him upon his being promoted to the
dignity of a duke.
Kensington Palace, January- 16, 1S33.
My Lord Duke,— By last night's gazette 1 find the confirmation of your being
raised to the dukedom of Southerland, and I avail myself of the earliest oppor-
tunity to congratulate you and the duchess upon this mark of royal favour so
properly reeommended to the king's consideration by Earl Grey. Accustomed as
I have been for many years to support the same liberal principles which your
lordship has sanctioned by your votes, it is a source of great happiness to me to
find them triumph, and that those who have forwarded them by their weight and
consequence, like your lordship, should receive a public aud royal testimonial
from their sovereign for their patriotic exertions.
1844.] FRIiYGE ADOLPHUS FREDERICK. 37
Allow me, my lord duke, to return you ami the duchess my best thanks for
your kind enquiries after my health, which, thank God, although slowly, is now
gradually recovering, and to sign myself, with every sentiment of esteem, as your
lordship's obliged and devoted, Augustus-Frederick.
46. ADOLRHUS-FREDEEICK, DUKE OF CAMBRIDGE, to GEORGE, SECOND DUKE
of Sutherland, about his recent visit to Trentham, StaiFordshire,
Cambridge Cottage, Kew, August 20, IS 14.
My DEAR Duke, — I hasten to thank you for your very kind letter of the 24th
instant, which I received yesterday, and to assure you that all my family regretted
very much your absence from Trentham, when we had the pleasure of paying a
visit to your duchess at that beautiful place. We were indeed very fortunate to
have fine weather during the time we were there, for the day of our arrival at
Alton Towers, and the day after we had been at Trentham, it rained so bad that
we could hardly get out at all. The duchess was looking remarkably well, I am
happy to say, as well as Lady Caroline, and her brother, who is a magnificent
stout boy. Having understood from the duchess that she is to meet you in
Scotland, and that you are all going to Inverary, I hope I may have the pleasure
of seeing you there. It is at least my intention to announce myself to the Duke
of Argyll as soon as I can fix the day that I shall be in his neighbourhood. I
mean to leave this on the 12th of September, and to go to the west, first to
Drumlandrig, and from thence make my tour, and finish it at Edinburgh.
Unfortunately I cannot stay above three weeks away, for my son-in-law, who
accompanies me, will return to Strelitz at the end of October, and therefore I
must give up the plan I had to pay you a visit to Dunrobbiu, which I must put
off to another year.
I cannot conclude without saying to you how delighted I was with Lady
Caroline, who, I think, is a very pleasing young lady, and assisted her mama
admirably in doing the honours of her house.
Kow, my dear duke, I will not detain you any longer than .to assure you that
you will ever find me, yours most sincerely,
38
IL— STATE AND OFFICIAL LETTEES.
47. James, third Marquis of Hamilton, to [John, thirteenth Earl of
Sutherland], — as to levies for his expedition to Germany.
Halierudhous, 13 JMaij 1G31.
My Lord, — As it is not wnknowin to your lordschip bow I being bund by my
vndcrtakin and signed articles to the King of Suedden to goe over with a strong
armie into Germanie for assisting him in his presput warre vndertakin thair for
the libertie of the trew religione and recoverie of the lands and possessions of the
professouris thairof vnjustlie vsurpit and deteynned by the Empreour and wthers
enaraeis of that comraoun caus, so I assure my self frome the former proufs I
haue had of your lordschips trew favour and freindseliip that ye will gif me all
the assistance ye can to further in a bissinis that is so just, of so great consequence,
and wherinboth my fortotm and honour ar so deiplie ingadged; as without all my
freinds best help for leving of guid and able men to aceompanie me in this ex-
peditione, it sould not bot suffer beyond all masoure, which or it sould receave the
least tash, I had rather suffer a thousand death es. Lot as I doe not doubt of your
lordschips eair and assistance heirin, so I live all further persuasione as neidles and
superfluus to be vsed to your lordship, who knowis how nierly it coneernes me, that
haue ever bein and sail still continew, your lordschips most affectioned cowsing
and servant,
Becaus 1 am to inbark my men about the fyft of Julij I wald thairfor intreat
your lordschip that so maDy as conveniently ye may send be at Leith againe the
first of the said moneth.
1610.] THE COMMITTEE OF ESTATES. 39
48. The Committee of Estates to John, thirteenth Earl of Sutherland, —
requesting his assistance.
Edinburgh, 2-1 January 1G40.
Noble Lord, — Howbeit the inciting at this tyme lies bene frequent, alsweill of
noble men as of cnmmissioneiis of sehyris and borrowes, yit we find that the
lettres direct for adverteisnient thairof have bene raiscarryed, and not cairfullie
delyvered to many noble men and commissioneris, who lies not keiped this dyet
in defanlt of tymous advertei.-ment, which is heavylie regraited be all who ar heir,
sieing the bussynes in hand ar of suche weight and importance, that we may
afiirmc trewlie never wes thair greater neide of delibcrat and serious counsall and
advyce to this poore natioue then now, quhen the enymeis of trewth and hateris
of this countrey have so prevailed that (as we ar credibillie enformed) his Majestic,
oure drcadc soveraigne, is possest with suche ane hard opinions of ws that he goes
on in all warlyke preparationns. And howbeit the frequent and daylie encreas-
sing repoirtis of thir leveyis does strick a dreadour and fear in the myndis of manye,
yit we ar hopefull that his Maj>btie schall be pleased to think better of ws when
he schall be ryghtlie enformed of the treuth. We have gevin instructiouns and
reasones of oure proceidingis in parliament to the Earle of Dum fennel ing, Lord
Lowdoun, and some vthe-ris, whome we have sent with thame to his Majestie for
cleiring of these impntationes layed to the chairge of the whole kingdomc. We
have lykwyse takin the best cours we cowld think vponn for releiff of the ccm-
moun burthenes, and lies sent instructiones thairanent to everie presbiterie within
this kingdome, whilk we hope schall be acceptable to everie good Seotisman who
loves religioun and the liberties of his countrey. Wee find all meanes vsed to
terrifie ws, alsweill at home by multiplieiug of men in the Castell of Edinburgh,
and preparatiouns maid by many v. ho .ar of a contrarye mynd to ws, as by aug-
menting the garresones on oure .borderis, which schowld mak everie man quho
lies- iuterrest in this kingdome to awake and considder Weill what may be the
event of thir thingis, and rather to vse all laufull ordiuarie meanes to preveene
danger then to suffer ouresclffis and oure posteritie to become .miserable by oure
negligence and divisione, which is the cheifest way quhairby oure adversaries
thinkes to overcome ws. For doeing quhairof lat ws first studdyc to have that
tcstimonye within ws that we have no other endis hot Godis glorie, the kingis
honour, and oure awin saiftie ; and, nixt, lat ws keip that heartye vmone amongst
40 STATE AXD OFFICIAL LETTERS. [1G4S-
oureselvs which e becomes these who ar knit togidder by all the bondis that God
and nature hath ovdayned ; and than we may be assured that the end sehall be
happie whatever be the mid*. Bot iff divisione fall amongst ws wee may expect
nvine and sdaverie to ws and oures. Wee ar thairfure bold earnestlie to entreat
yowr lonlschip to take this mater to heart, and to desyre your eoneurranee and
assistance for peiformeanee of what is requisite to be done be good Christiancs,
dewtiefull subjectis, and trew hearted patriotis in a warrandable way, alsweill for
vindicating oure selffis frome vnjust aeeusatiouns, as for defending this kingdome,
oure lyfes and liberties, frome injurie and iuvasione. And for that effeetyour lord-
sehip wold be pleased to give your l>est advyee and assistance with the rest of
your sehyre as oeeasioun and necessitie sehall requyre ; as we sehall be
Your affeetioned freindis,
Rothes. Eglintoun. Lothian. Xaper. Burghly,
To our honorable good lord the Earle of Sutherland. 1
.49. Military Order by Major-General Middleton, Commander of the Forees
in the North of Scotland, to Lieutenant-Colonel Campbell, — re-
garding rebels in Lord Reay's lands. 28th January 1648.
By Generall Maior Middletonr, — In regard ther be dyvers yit in rebellioue
in the Lord Keays lands who trvble the Earle of Svtherland and his freinds in
ther posessions in Strathnever, yow are therfor at sight heirof, or when the Earle
of Svtherland shall reqvyre, to command sex seore, weill armed, with the eompleit
officers of a companie, and as manie above sex seore as can be spard from your
garrison convenience, who are to reeeave orders and dereetions from the Earle of
1 The armorial seat which closed this letter Above the shield are the letters i.e. The
bears a shield charged with a demi-lion issuing initials and arms indicate that the seal he-
from a fess cheque, with a ileur-de-lis iu base. longed to James Chalmers of Gadgirth.
1CS5.] THE PRIVY C0UXC1L. 41
Svtherland from tyme to tyme, and to be disposed olT be bim in garrisons or
othervayes as the necessetie of the service shall reqvyre. Of this faile not.
Giwen at Gordonstovne the 28 of Jauuary I CIS.
JO. MlDDLETONE.
For Levtennent Collonell Campbell or anie commanding in his abscence.
50. The Privy Council to John, Lord Steathnaver, — warning him of Argyll's
intended invasion, and desiring him to muster his forces.
Ilalyrudhouse, 17th Maij 1CS5.
My Lord, — His Majesties high commissioner and the lords of privy councill,
being certainely informed that the late Earle of Argyle (with severall other
desperat rebell») hes appeared on some of the Western Islelands, and is about to
hind and raise some commotion there ; therefor, they hereby require yow to
call togither three hundred of your oune, and of your vassalls and followers men,
on foot, well armed and appointed, and furnished with twenty dayes provision,
and with them to march and be at the head of Lochnesse against the ninth day
of June nixt, peremptory. And yow are to certifie such as comes not furth
with yow as said is, that they shall be repute as disaffected to his Majesties
government, and proceeded against and punished accordingly, and as absents
from the kings hoast. This being ane affaire reipiireing expedition, and so much
importeing his Majesties service and the security of the government, your care
aud diligence therein is earnestly desyred and expected by his grace and the
Councill, in whose name and at whose command, this is signified to yow by
Your humble servant, Perth, Cancett 9 ,
i.f.d.
For the Lord Strathnaver, for his Majesties service.
51. The Privy Council to John, Lord Strathnaver, — the king's thanks for
his services; he is to dismiss his regiment. 23d June ICS5.
My Lord, — These are warranding yow to march home with your regiment of
foot and disband them. And we in his Majesties name give yow thanks for your
F
42 STATE AXD OFFICIAL LETTERS. [1GS9.
ready and hearty concurrance in his service at tliia time. So we desyre yow will
thank all the iuferioui' ofHurrs and people, and assure them of his Majesties pro-
tection, and desyre them to be ready to serve his Majesty if lie call them for his
service and their oune safely. Given at Edinburgh the 23d June 1685.
Perth, Cancer!*,
For my Lord Strathnaver. l.P.D.
50. John, Lord Strathnaver, to John Graham, Viscount Dundee, — urging
him to follow the example of the Duke of Gordon. [Draft.]
Inverness, 3d of July 10S9.
TlFE concern that many equally interested in us both lies for your lordship,
abstracting from that respect which your own nterite made me have, cannot but
occasion regrait in me to see that the courses you take tend inevitably to the
rain of you and yours if persisted in. I cannot, therfor, but wish that you would
follow the Duke of Gordon* exam pile, and I am persuaded it will be found the
best course. Neither shall your friends, who at the time are not nor will not
medle, be wanting to show tber affection to you and interest in the standing of
your family \ and I hope you will doe me the justice to belive that none wishes it
better or will more effectually lay himself out in it then,
The 3 of Julij.
The contens of this letter wher writen by my Lord Strathnaver opon my
desyer and bij my orders. T. Levingstone.
This is the doubel of a letter to the Viscount of Dondij, writen b'j my desyer
the 3 of Julij. . T. Levingstone.
53. John, Viscount Dundee, to John, Lord Strathnaver, — in reply to the
immediately preceding letter. [Copy.]
Stronan, July 15, 1G89.
My Lord, — Your lordships dated the 3 I received on the 13, and would have
returned answer befor nou had 1 not been called sudenly to Enverlochie to give
orders anent the forces, amies, and amunition sent from Yrland.
16S9.] JOIfX GRAHAM, VISCOUXT DUNDEE. 43
My lord, I am extreamly sensible of the obligation I have to you for offering
your iudevors for me, and giving me advice imthe d cape rat estate_you thoght our
a ft aires wer in. I am perswaded it llouse from your sincer goodness and concern
for me and myu ; and in return I asseur your lordship I have bad no less concern
for you, and was thinking of making the lyk adress to you, but delayed it till
things should apear mor clear to you. I am sorry your lordship should be so
far abused as to think that there is any shadou of apcarance of stability in this
jiewe structure of goverment these meu have framed to themselves. They made
you, I dont not, believe that Darie was relieved 3 weeks agoe, by printed
acounts, and I can asseur you it never was, and nou is taken. They told you
the Inglish fleet and Dutch wer mesters at sea. I knou for certain the French
is, and in the Chanel, in testimony wherof they have defeated our Scots fleet ;
for as they came alongst they fell on the tuo frigats, killed the captains, and
seised the ships, and broght the men prisoners to Mull. They tell you Shomberg
is going to Yrland to carry the war thither. 1 as?eur you the king has landed a
considerable body of forces here, and will land himself amongst our friends in
the west, whom I am sorry for, very soon. So, my lord, having given jou a clear
and fcreu prospect of affaires, which I am feared amongst your folks you ar not
used with, I leave you to judge if I or you, your family or rayn, be most in
denger. Hou ever, I aknouledge francly I am no less oblidged to your lordship,
seing you made me offer of your asistance in a time you thoght I needed it.
"Wherin I can serve your lordship or family at any time you think convenient
you may freely imploy me, for as far as niey deuty will allou me in the circum-
stances we stand I will study your well, as beeoms, my lord, your most humble
servant,
' UJi5}'l£j
For my Lord Stranaver.
Annexed : This is one ansuer to a letter writen bij mij Lord Stranever to
the Vicount of Dundie at mij desijer, deatet the 3 of July, wichs ij saw and
aprouved of. T. Levingstone,
1689.
Envernes, 19 Julij 1689.
44 STATE AXE OFFICIAL LETTERS. [1714.
54. John Erskmne, sixth Eyrl of Mai:, to John, fifteenth Earl of
Sutherland, — not to assemble for hunting.
Whitehall, August 31, 1714.
My Lord, — I am directed by the lords justices to acquaint your lordship and
uthers in the Highlands that it U their lordships pleasure that you do not
assemble together any numbers of people upon the account of hunting, or under
any other preteuce whatsoever; which I make no doubt but your lordship will
punctually observe.— I am, with very great respect, my lord, your lordships
most obedient aud most humble servaut,
Earl of Sutherland.
55. Henry, sixth Earl of Suffolk, to Joiin, fifteenth Earl of Suther-
land, — that the King has appointed him to bear the third sword at his
Coronation. [Copy.]
Suffolk Street, 18th October 1714.
My Lord, — The king having appointed your lordship to bear the third sword
in the proceeding at the royal solemnity of his Majesties coronacion, these are to
desire your lordship to meet in the House of Peers at his .Majesties palace in
Westminster on Wednesday the 20th of this instant October by eight of the clock
in the" morning in your velvet robes, and with your coronet. — I am, my lord,
your lordships most obedient humble servaut, (Signed) Suffolk, M.
Earl of Sutherland to bear the third sword.
1715.] J01LY, FIRST DUKE OF MARLBOROUGH. 45
50. John, first Duke of Marlborough, to John, fifteenth Earl of
Sutherland, — congratulating him upon his signal serncea.
London, February 20th, 1715. 1
Mr Lord,— I have receiv'd the honour of your lordships letter of the 29th of
the last month. The two letters you mention of having favoured me with never
came to my hands, or I shou'd not have omitted returning you my humble
thankes. I doe with all my heart congratulate and rejoyce with you for the signal
services your lordship has done his Majesty and the kingdume of Great Britain.
I hope it will not be long before I shall have the happyness of embracing you
here, at which time I shall take the liberty of asuring you that you have in me
a most faithful friend and servant. — I am, with much truth and respect, my lord,
your lordshipes most obedient humble servant,
fitAywrrry^A*
To the Right Honourable the Earl of Sutherland.
57. JonN, first Duke of Athole, to John, fifteenth Earl of
Sutherland, — to come to Perthshire with his men. 2
Blaire Castle, October 9th, 1715.
My Lord, — I have been longing extremly to hear that your lordship w\is in the
north, which, till this day, I have had no accountes of. The Earl of Marr is still
at Perth, and master of all the countrys hereabouts benorth Forth, except this
house and my country about it ; and he and Lord Tullibardine have got a great
many of my men to joine them, which it was impracticable to prevent, since ther
is not on wel affected to our king on this side of Forth that could give me any
assistance. I am convinced your lordship is perswaded that it will be of the
1 The year 1715 should be read as 1716. [Vhh Kos. 69 acd 71, ivfra.]
2 Draft Letter m Athole Charter-chest.
4G STATE AS D OFFICIAL LETTERS. [1715.
greatest service to his Majesty and the protestant interest that you come with
what men you can raise to Perthshyre with the utmost expedition, "and I shal
joyne your lordship with what men I can raise in Athole. If your lordship
bring betwixt two and three thousand men, with what you can have of the laird
of Grants, wee will soon recover the northside of Forth, and dissipate the rebclls
if they continue so long on this side, but I hear they designe to pass the Forth
in a few dayes. I shal add no more, but all depends on the quickness of your
march, and I shal continue in this place untill your lordship come, or that I
hear from your lordship, who am, my lord, your lordships incut humble servant,
Athole.
I do not write to ray Lord Itae, not knowing where he is at present, but I
know your lordship will communicate this letter to him, and I hope I shal have
the satisfaction to see him here soon with your lordship.
To the Eail of Sutherland.
I never had any answer to this letter, tho' I was certainly informed his lord-
ship received it, neither did he ever write or send any message to me, tho* there
was no other lhmtennaut on the north side of the Forth. Athole.
Huntingtower, March 2, 1716.
.58. John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to the Lairds of Kilravock,
elder and younger, and to Colonel and Captain Grant, — Measures
for protecting Dunrobin. 1
Dunrobin, 11th of October 1715.
Gentlemen, — I receaved last night your letter of the 8 th from Colloden, and
rejoyce very much to find you are all weel. I wrote a letter to Kilraike by Mr.
Thomson from Kind an, of the ninth, giving ane account that, being informed of
the superiority of the enimys forces by Young Foulis, Newmore, Culraine and
Culkanse, who see them in full march, a retreat was agreed upon as the only
proper methode to secure the north, and by Gods blessing we made it without
the loss of a ba^a^e horse. Ther are but two passes in this country for five and
1 Original Letter in Athole Charter-cheat.
17 15. J IICG1I ROSE OF KIL HAVOC K, ETC. 47
twentie miles from the sen. My men are in ane readines from all corners to fall
upon them. The Munios and Rosses are soe to. If yon send some men hither,
if they attack this place, and march with the rest to joyn the weel affected Frasers,
and soe goe about upon them, they will in a manner be in a hose nett. If they
retire back 1 shall endeavor to be upon them. I leave to yourselves to judge
what is most proper. You may easily consider that, if they master this house, all
the north is ther onu. Ther is noe time to be lost ; soe 1 shall add noe more but
that I am, most worthy friend, your most affeetionat humble servant,
Sutherland.
My Lord Reay is goeing to bring doun his posse. If quick despatch be made
to attack Seaforth upon his oun quarters, lett the number be what they please, it
will contribute to make them leave this country if they were in it. I leave all to
your own judgements : consider the criticallness of the juncture. Mr. Gordon
the bearer can tell you many more particulars, though he was not att the retreat;
as also concerning their numbers. Adieu.
Indorsed : Letter from the Earle of Sutherland, daited atPnnrobin, Occtober
11th, 1715, directed to Ross of Kihaick, elder and younger, and Cullonel and
Captain Grants, which was enclosed iu a letter from them to his [grace, the Duke
of Athole], dated at Killraick, Occtober 13th, 1715.
59. Hugh Rose of Kilravock, Me. William Rose, George Grant and
William Grant, to John, first Duke of Athole. 1
Kilravocke, October 13th, 1715.
My Lord,— Severalls of us mett here last night in order to transport our men
be sea, and assist the Earle of Sutherland, who base been some dayes bygone very
much distressed by a numerous enemy of M'Donells and M'Kenzies. 1 liadd
luekely oceasione to converse with a gentleman just eome from Blair with your
graees letter to the earle. He was pleased at your graces desyre to give us the
import of it, and we are overjoyed to have, in conjunctione \wtk your graee, ane
oportunity for doing all we can to serve the government and extricate ourselves
if possible from the hardships and opres»ions we are like to meet with if [in] this
country rebells are allowed to proceed, in the course they seem to intend at present.
1 Origical Letter iu Athole Charter chest.
48 STATE AXD OFFICIAL LETTERS. [1715.
Your grace will see by the inclo&ed, which came late last night to our bauds, how
the Karle of Sutherland is circumstanced, and is now lying at sutch a. distance
that it will be utterly impossible to transport such a number of men as were
necessary to make head against our enemys, who grow stronger dayly, and are apt
to represent any attempts we make (if not successful) in a inaner that may
discouradge the generality of those who are otherwayes weill affected, aud might-
be of great use bade they any tollerable power, to execute thcr good intentione.
We take leave a[lso to] aquent your grace that if the Earle [of Sutherland
fynds it within his safty practicab[le to] quite his oun country aud joyue your
gra[ee as] is proposed by your letter, we are hear [ready] to assist so good a cause
with our people, — make a party as strong as possible. — We are, with very great
respect, may it please your grace, your graces most obedient, most humble, and
most faithfull servants, Mr. Wm. Rose. II. Rose.
Will. Grant. George Grant.
60. John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to "William, Lord Strathnaver,
liis son, — to exert himself in behalf of his king and country.
Dunrobin, 14th November 1715.
BEING obleid' r ed ; dear son, to make what haist possible toward's Invernes, with
what men I can carry along with me ; our religion, laws, and libertys ly at stake ;
God, our king and country, require us to exert our selves, which every body will
doe, who ouns a duty to the last, or a value for the first. If people will be such
" brutes as to have noe regard for all these, punishment here to the highest degree
shall be inflicted, besides what they may expect herafter. Communicate this to
persons of all degrees ; make what haist you can. I doubt not my Lord Reay
and all the other gentlemen will doe the same, being all inspired with a just zeal
for soe o-ood a kin^ and soe good a cause. Take a'ne exact list of such as stay
behind or desert, aud order the ferry s to be secured to prevent it. I am, dear
son, your most affectionat father,
For the Lord Strathnaver.
1715.] JOUX, FIRST DIKE OF ATHOLE. 49
Gl. John, nnsT Duke of Athole, to [The Roses of Kilrayock, father and
son, and others], — the defeat of the rebels at SherifTmuir, ete. 1
Blair Castle, November 15, 1715.
Gentlemen, — I received the favour of your letter, daited at Killraiek, Ocetober
13th, which came not to my hands till the 4th of this instant. I immediatly
transmitted the letters yow sent by that bearer to the Duke of Argyle and
Brigadier Grant, and was waiting the return, that I might write with them to
you, but not haveing yett received them, I can delay no longer to acquaint you of
the good news that the. Duke of Avgyle attack the Earl of Mar and the rebells in
conjunction with him upon Sunday last on the Sliirrifmuir, about six myles this
side of Stirling, and has given them an intire defeat. I have yett no particular
aceouut of this action, but by some decerters who came to this country last night,
who say that the Earl of Mars horse fled at the beginning of the action, and that
there left wing were intirely routed and fled, of which there were abuut 300
Athull men, with Seaforth men, Strathmores, Strouan Robertsons, and Faseallies,
and the cannon were with them were taken. There are severals taken prisoners,
but the particulars aie nott known. They also say that Earle of Marshall and
Lord Drummond are kill'd, and that Marquis of Tullibardine made his escape
that night to Perth with some few horse.
I designe as soon as I can gett what men I have togither to march to Perth,
and recover that toun from the rebells. I intreat that as soon as this comes to
your hands you will march with what number of Grant's men you think proper
towards this place to joine me in dispersing any of the rebells may gether
togither, and if I be gone farther doun the eountry befur you ean come, I shall
leave a letter for you what plaee to come to. I need not tell you how much this
will be for our kings service, and for establishing the peace in the north. I
depend upon the assurances you gave me in your last, and expeet you will make
all posible heast, who am,
If the Earl of Sutherland be join'd you, I doubt not but he will' also come, tho'
I never had ane return to a letter I wrote his lordship ; tho' his lordship be not
yett joind you I expect you will not waite, but come with what men you have.
1 Old copy of letter in Athole Charter-cheat.
G
50 STATE AXD OFFICIAL LETTERS. [1715.
0*2. John, fifteenth Earl ov Sutherland, to William, Lord Strathnaver,
his son, — that the. forces were to march to Elgin.
Burgie, I ane hour past G acloack,
5 December 1715.
I norE, dear son, you arc all icady to march by the time this comes to your
hands, it being proper that wee should march in some order into Elgiu. The
mure of the kaim of KUbuiack will be the best place for us to draw up upon,
which I told Captain George Grant yesterday. My humble service [to] my Lord
Reay, Captain Grant, and the rest of the gentlemen. I doubt not but every one
will attend his post, and march as dilligently as possible without confusion, soe as
to be very early in quarters. — I am, dear son, your most affectionat father,
Sutherland.
Leave the inclosed for my Lord Lovat with some careful] person.
For the Lord Strathnaver commanding his Majestys forces in and about Forres.
G3. Resolutions of a Council of War at Inverness,— as to the movement
of troops.
Munchy, 2G December 1715.
1. Resolved that Brigadier Grants men, with a detachment of 200 from
Strathua veins battalion, 150 from Reays, 150 from Munros, 50 from Culloden,
shall march to-morrow forenoon to joyn Lord Lovats men at Castle Downy, or
the nighboorhood.
2. Resolved that Wednesday morning, if the river is passable, that body shall
march against the M'Kenzies.
3. Resolved that if it is not, Brigadier Grants men shall march into Urquhart
to bring that place and Glennoriatun to -obedience, and Lord Lovat shall send a
detachment to reduce the Chisholm.
4. Resolved that Kilraik with Sir Ardchbald Campbell, and what men comes
allongst with them, shall follow.
Resolved that 3 days' provision shall, before the march, be distributed to the men.
Jo. Forbes. Sutherland.
Robert Monro. Strathnaver. Lovat.
George Grant. Re ay.
Dorso : Resolution of a Councell of War held at Inverues, 2 Gth December 1715.
1716.] LIEUTEXAXT-GEXERAL WILLIAM CADOGAX. 51
G4. James Farquiiarson, aide-de-camp to John Erskine, sixth Earl of Mar,
to William Sutherland of Geese,-— announcing the arrival of the
Pretender in Scotland.
Wick, January 14th, 1716.
S IU) — J am ordered by the king to acquaint you of his safe arrival! in Scottland,
which I am satisfied will be very agreeable news to the honest gentlemen in
Caithness. I am further commanded to signifie to you that his Majestie does
positively expect from all of you that you will take such measures immediately
as tends most to his Majesties service. For this end I have apointed a generall
meeting att Wick on next Tuesday, and I shall be obliged to look on those that
absent themselves as enemys to his Majesties person and government, which,
with my humble duty to yourself and family, is all att present from, sir, your
humble servant, James Farquharson,
Aid-de-eamp to the Duke of Mar.
Dorso : Coppy of Farqharsons letter to Win, Sutherland of Geese, January 11.
05. Lieutenant-General William Cadogan, afterwards Earl of Cadogan, to
John, FirrEENTH Earl of Sutherland, — stating his intention to besiege
Perth, etc.
Sterling, 14 January 17*£.
My Lord,— This will be delivered your lordship by Colonell Read, who I send
on purpose to acquaint you with what wee are doeing in these parts, and that wee
intend, God willing, to march the 2 2d or 23d of this month to beseige Perth-
The greatest service your lordship can therefore doe his Majesty att present is to
make such a diversion on your side as may hinder Huntly and Seaforth from
returning to joyu Mar. I doubt not but your lordship will act with your usual
zeal, and vigour on this most important occasion, and I beg leave to refferr to
Colonell Read for a farther account of our proceedings. I send by this frigate to
your lordship twenty barrels of powder, and ball in proportion ; and I profit with
great pleasure of the occasion to assure your lordship, I have the honour to be,
with the truest respect and esteem, your lordships most obedient and most
obliged humble servant, Wm. Cadogan.
The bearer is to return as soon as possible.
5 2
STATE AXD OFFICIAL LETTERS.
[1716.
Postscript : After I had ended my letter I received the honour of your lord-
ships of the first of this instant, which I shall forthwith send by an express to
London, and I heartily congratulate your lordship on your good success, and the
Great and signal services you have done your king and country. And now that
the Eail of Seaforth has submitted to mercy, I doubt not but your lordship will
easily be able to keep Iluntly and his friends employed att home to defend
themselves. Nothing can contribute more to facilitate our operations on this side,
nor be of greater service to his Majesty, and therefore I cannot forbear recom-
mending it to youT lordship in the most earnest manner.
To the right honourable the Earl of Sontherland, Inverness.
QQ. James Stanhope, Secretary of State, to John, fifteenth Earl of
Sutherland, — the king's thanks for his good service ; surrender of the
Earl of Seaforth ; Lord Lo vat's pardon, etc.
Whitehall, January 23d, 171|.
3tfY LORD,— I had yesterday, by a flying packet, a letter from Lieutenant-Generall
Cadogan, with one from your lordship to him of the 1st instant, and I had by
the preceeding post seen one of your lordships to Brigadeer Grant of the same
date. As in this last your lordship takes notice of your having writt severall
letters to my Lord Townsend and myself, I can assure you neither of us have
any of your lordships since those to which wee gave a return to Mr. Gordon,
who, I hope, is with your lordship before now, and that you have receiv'd the
money, arms, and ammunition" were sent with him to enable you to cary on his
Majesties service in those parts as your lordship has done so suecesfully
hitherto.
It is, my lord, with great pleasure I obey his Majesties orders to return your
lordship his thanks for the good service you have done him; and it is his
Majesties pleasure your lordship should do the same in his name to the Lord
Lovat and the other gentlemen you mention in your letter to Lieutenant-Generall
Cadogan, who have on this occasion been so asistant to you, and as his Majesty
approves of your transaction with the Earle of Seaforth, so he accepts of that
earles submission on condition that he surrender himself to your lordship at
Inverness within such a time as you shall judge reasonable, and that he remain
there on his parole.
54 STATE AXD OFFICIAL LETTERS. [1716.
maner of share in it, as yow will easeily judge of when yow peruse the following
information, which yow may depend upon is true in fact, as I remember it, and
in as few words as I can give it, is as followcs : —
Upon the 13th day of September last, at 5 in the morning, as I think, the
laird of M'Intosh and Borlum came into this town with about 400 of the best
of their men, and as soon as they entered the town, seized Captain Sutherland of
Kinminitie, Campbell of Carriek, and two other of his Majesties officers, and in a
few hours therafter Borlum did from our Cross, bareheaded, proclaime tho
Fretender, and therafter marched out of town with their men towards Culloden.
But the lady, upon their approach, called in some of their teiments and servants
and barricadoed her doors and gates, as they came befor the house. They sent her
a message in their kings name, desireing her to deliver any arms or ammunition
was within the house for their kings service. To which that lady returned
answer that she knew no king but King George, and that she look't on them as
rebells against the government. If they would dare to approach within gun shott
of her house (tho' she was but a woman) she would soon let them know that she
had both arms and ammunition to assert his Majesty King Georges right and
title to the crown against their rebellious endeavours. Upon which they marched
a Title off from the house and cantoned their men for some days in Collodens and
the neighbouring lands.
"When Captain Munro of Fowlis had notice that they still continued in
our neighbourhood, he conveened about 200 men and was upon his march
to joyn the Laird of Kilravock, who had about 200 men more in his house
waiting till Fowlis had come near to the rebells on this syde. Then he was
to fall upon them, and if Fowlis had not been stop't, Kilravock and he had
knock't that insurrection on the head. But my Lord Seafort (who at that tyme
we thought would not have medled), to our great surprise, had conveened 200 or
300 men, and sent Fowlis word (as he was upon his march to this plaee) that if
he offered to cross or go furrier with his men, he was to meet him with a greater
body, upon which Fowlis retired, and M'Intosh and Borlum came in that night to
our town (hearing that Kilravock and Fowlis were to attack them that night where
they lay), and next day they were reinforced with 200 men of my Lord Seaforts.
That lord came in with them, and after he had setled Sir John M'Kenzie
governor in our castle, he returned next day to Brahan, and the M'Intoshes
marched for Fearth. The Laird of Fowlis conveened all the men be could, and
inc.] lyyjsusESS is the j/axds of the rebels. 5.3
ineamped them at the bridge of AInes, and wrote circular letters to the Lords
Stratlmaver and Reay and other gentlemen in the neighbourhood requiring them
to eonveen their men and joyn him for his Majesty King Georges service at
Alnes. And in a ftw days therafter my Lord Sutherland arrived from London
in the Queenbnrrow, and in eight days after his arriveall at Dunrobine he gote
about 300 meu together, unarmed as they were, and joyned Fowlis at AInes. My
Lord Iteay likewise joyned him with about 3U0 very good men, and above 200
of General Ross's men, who were likewise very good men, joyned Fowlis. When
all these were gote together, I am told, they made about 1500 men. But by this
tyine Sir Donald M'Donald came down and joyned Seafort, as did the Chisolme,
so that that lord had ane army near to double their number, and lay encamped
within five or six myles of each other for a uhole week together; and then my
Lord Seafort and his people marched towards Alnes and ineamped within less
than a myle of them, where he lay Fryday and Saturnday, dureing which tyrne
there were several messages past betwixt them. Seafort demanded of them to
give him hostages for a security that they would not trouble his country in his
absence, and the kings party desired him to lay down his arms, and dismiss his
men, and in that ease they would not trouble his eountry in his absence ;
and my Lord Seafort sent them word Saturudays afternoon, that he would
give them no furder tyme to deliberate upou his demands than Sundays after-
noon, and that on Monday he designed to attack them. Upon which I am told
ane council of warr was held, in which, it's said, Fowlis and his friends were for
fighting. The lords, who at that time became head men in the camp, did not see
it convenient, because the enemy was so far supernumerary. To which I am told
your freind, George Munro of Xewmore, answered that, tho' they were supernumer-
ary, yet it was their business to fight them, because they might have a chance for
beatting them, and tho' they did not they would not faill so to skatter them, as
would effectually dissable them from eonveening in haste again, and some people
say that Newmore protested against the lords for not agreeing to his proposeall.
Suuday at night my Lord Sutherland and lieay marched off with their men the
way of Bona-ness, and the rest of that army went to their respective dwelling-
houses, and Monday morning my Lord Seafort took possession of their camp,
where he lay some days untill my Lord Duffus went in with some of Sir Donalds
men to Taine and proclaimed the preteuder, and therafter came to this place with
his whole army, where he lay two nights. He sent Davachmaluaeh with a trumpet
5G STATE AXD OFFICIAL LETTERS. [1710.
to GulloJen, desireing Mr. Duncan Forbes (who sometyrae befor had come home)
to surrender the house and arms that were in it, or come in and capitulate with
him about it. But Mr. Duncan refined to do either, I mean to come to town or
surrender his arms, but trysted with my Lord Duffus next day within a myle of
the town and repeatted his refuseall. That lord sent likeways to Kilravock,
desireing him to surrender his arms, who likewise refused to do it, and told the
messenger that came to him that he would fall by the walls of his house bef<>r he
parted with any of his arms. Upon which that lord sent out a party to take in
the cowes and the sheep of their U-nnents. But my Lord Duffus, knowing that
Kilravock had about 200 men in his house, discharged the party that was sent
out from going near any part of Kilravocks lands, untill he gote the return of a
letter he was to send him that morning. 11 is lordship wrote to Kilravock
intreating him or his son to come and speak with him but for half aue hour, and
that if his propnscalls did not please him he should return in safety. Upon which
the Laird of Kilravock, younger, came in, and after rejecting all that lords
proposealls took leave and returned home. Next day, Seafort, Sir Donald
M'Donald, and the Clrisolme marched off with all their men for Pearth. They
were not above four or five days gone, when Kilravock wrote in to Sir John
M'Kenzie, who was then governour of the castle and town, desireing him to abandon
the town, or he might expect within a few days such ane attack as would make
it too warm for him. Upon which Sir John sent ane express after my Lord
Seafort acquainting him with Kilravocks designe against him, and at the same
tyme returned answer to Kilravock that he would not abandon the town, upon
"which Kilravock had ordered all his men to be gote together in order to disslodge
him • and while he was getting his men together, my Lord Lovat and Culloden
arrived, who stopt him some days till they had gote their men together. My
Lord Lovat had gote in three or four days therafter l!00 men together. Kilravock
had writ to Captain George Grant, who came down with 300 men. When Lord
Lovat, Kilravock, and Captain George Grant had gote these men together, it was
aggreed that the Lord Lovat should attack the town upon the west syde,
Kilravock, Culloden, and Captain Grant upon the south and east. .By this tyme
Sir John had got a reinforcement, and expected more dayly, which made them
push on their affair without loss of tyme. Kilravock sent in about 100 men of
his own commanded by his brother Arthure, and Mr. Duncan Forbes commanded
about 40 or 50 of his brothers men, with about 30 of Dunphaills men (about two
1716.] SURRENDER OF IXVERXESS BY THE REBELS. 57
nights befor they intended a general storm). That nights expedition was
intended only for cutting oil the rebells communication by sea by takeing away
the boats from the shoar, etc., which accordingly they did. But as they came to
the shoar they fouud two of Sir Johns Gentries, who fired at them. One
of the Gentries gote off, and the other Arthure Ross apprehended, and after
he had gote him, he told him he would spare his life provideing he would lead
him a safe way out of veiw of the steeple to the gaurd houss door (which was
keept in the tolbooth) which accordingly the fellow did all along the water syde,
and when he came to the tolbooth door he knoekt at it, and the eentrie calling
who was there, he auswereing a freind, the fellows within who knew it was their
comorade that was on eentrie, oppened the door to let him in. Arthure Ross and
some of his men that were at his back were ready to jump in too ; but the fellow
getting in befor him eryed out, ' The enemy,' so that the whole gaurd gote to the
door. But Arthure Rose pushing up the door upon them gote himself half in, but
they pressed him so betwixt the doors that he could not get in, and in that pickle
in order to dissengadge himself, he fired both his pistolls upoun the gaurd. But
unfortunately, and before he gote finder, they shott him in the belly, of which he
i]yed in a few hours, which discouraged his people so, that they would make no
further attack that night. The next day Sir John M'Kenzie wrote to Kilravock
that he was sorry for the missfortuue of the last night, and the more for the loss
of such a brave man as his brother was. He invited Kilravock and any of his
freinds he pleased to come in to Mr. Roses buriall and that they should be
noways molested. The laird of Kilravock, younger, Sir Archibald Campbell and
some other freiuds, came in the next day and buried Mr. Rose; and Sir John, fiuding
that Kilravock, elder, was so much out of humour as not to return answere to his
letter, nor comeiug himself to the burial, he wrote out again to him, intreating him
to offer no further austerities against him, since he was willing to surrender on such
terms as he might adjust with him, and for that effect he desired Kilravock to
meet him within a myle of the town. They met accordingly next morning, and
Sir John aggreed to abandon the castle and town upon condition he would be
allowed to cary off his men and arms, and have safe passage to go for Pearth.
Kilravock told them that he would not of himself aggree to allow him to go to
Pearth, nor cary off his arms without adviseing with the rest of the leivtennents,
but told Sir John that for his own part he would never aggree to his going for
Pearth, but would return their and his answere once that night, with which if he
H
5S STATE AND OFFICIAL LETTERS. [1716.
was not satisfied, lie might assure himself of being attaek't next day. Upon which
Kilravoek repaired to CulIuJen, where the rest of tbe leivtennents of this county
were, and after he told them what past, they all aggreed that the life of one of
their men was of greater value than the few rusty arms Sir John was master of;
so aggreed that Sir John might go home with his men and arms, hut not go to
1 'earth, Of which aggreement Sir John accepted, and marched out with his men in
the forenoon on Snturnday the 12th of November; and in the afternoon of that
day Kilravoek and Culloden marched in their men, and in the evening Captain
George Grant eamo in with 300 of his men and took posession of the town and
castle, and Sabbath morning Captain George Grant came in with 400 men more,
in all 700 men, as well eled and aimed as ever was seen. Upon the Wednesday
night thereafter the Earl of Sutherland and Lord Jieay came to town to congratulate
those gentlemen upon takeing the town, promiseing that as soon as possible, they
would reinforce them with their men, and thereafter those lords returned to
Sutherland. And about ten days therafter they eanic and brought up 300 men each,
which were joyned by Fowlis and General Itoss's men in their way, rnakuing in
all about 1000 men. And in a few days after his lordships arrivcall here, he
marched down to Elgin with near to 1000 men, being detaehments of all the men
lyeing here, where he stayed two days himself and returned back with his own,
the Lord Keay and Fowlis his men, and left the Lord Lovat and Kilravoek with
their people to finish what he intended there. And upon the 27 of December the
Earl of Sutherland ordered the Lord Lovat to go with his men, the Earle of
Sutherlands own men, the Lord Keay, Grants, Fowlis, Cullodens, etc., to attack
Seafort, who at that tyme was eonveening his men again. Kilravoeks men and
some of General Rosses men were imployed about other matters to the eastward.
My Lord Seafort brought on a eommuneing with my Lord Lovat, and the same
day my Lord Lovat marched out of town. My Lord Sutherland sent me that
night about 1 1 a'clock to Castle Dowuie with a letter to my Lord Lovat bearing
that I might be a fitt man to be imployed in the eommuneing with Seafort, and
accordingly my Lord Lovat sent me by 1 of the clock next morning with a letter
to the countess, who eame herself with me to Bewlie, about 12 a'cloek that day
to meet with my Lord Lovat. We had not been there above one hour when Lovat
came with the army with which he was to fight the M'Kenzies. My lady, who
had full powers from her son, communed witii his lordship some hours, and then
aggreed that my Lord Seafort should disperse his men and promise not to take
17IC] NEGOTIATIONS WITH THE EARL OF SEAWIITII.
r<o
up arms against his Majesty King George, but lye peaceably at home untill the
return of ane express from London. My Lady Seafort returned to Erahan that
night to have this aggreement signed by her s<>n, and my Lord Lovat sent me
into town that night to acquaint the Earl of Sutherland, Lord Strathnaver and
Lord Eeay (who stayed here to keep the town), with the terms on which he had
aggreed with Sea forth.
Those Lords made me welcome and seemed not a little pi eased with the news
I brought them, but the next day being Thursday, at 10 a'clock, my Lord Lovat
sent in another express giveing account that the papers were not returned from
Brahan, and that same night another express came in telling that my Lord Seafort
stood upon some ceremonial parts of the paper which he would by no means pass
from ; and my Lord Lovat, desireous to end all matters for his Majesties interest,
acquainted my Lord Sutherland of his resolution of attacking Seafort next morning.
At this tyme young Kilravock came in to town with about 100 of his father's men,
and about 11 of the clock at night, my Lord Sutherland, being resolved to see
matters ended one way or other, took horse and went out to Castle Downie, and the
laird of Kilravock, younger (who had come into town but about ane hour befor),
hearing that his lordship was gone, and all appearance of ane accomodation over,
took horse in order to volunteer it, aud left orders with his people to follow him
next morning by break of day, which accordingly they did. But befor they
could come up, matters were adjusted. My Lord Lovat returned his people back
to the Aird ; Kilravock, Captain George Grant, Fowlis, Culloden, Mr. Duncan
Forbes, and the rest of the gentlemen returned to town that night with their
■ men, and the next day my Lord Sutherland came im Then my Lord Eeay set a
treaty on foot with my Lord Huutly, and went himself to Elgine to end it. I
am intirely unaquainted with it, save by hearsay, therfor I forbear to say any-
thing about it, since I intend to write nothing but what consists with my know-
ledge to be really matter of fact. And a day or two after my Lord Eeays return
from Elgine he returned home with all his men, as did my Lord Strathnaver with
his, leaving no men here but Fowlis, and 200 men of my Lord Lovat's and
KOravocks were ordered to garisons at the east. Captain George Grant went
home with his men, and next day after, his Majesties ship the 'Lark' arrived at
Cromertie with some arms and ammunition, and I am told, some money too. Mr.
Gordon, who was sent to London by my Lord Sutherland, returned with her and
brought us a great many prints, which some of my Lord Sutherlauds freiuds were
60 STATE AXD OFFICIAL LETTERS. [171C.
so just to his lordship as to take away from the coffee house befor half the town
could see them. I hear his lor J>hip -is very angry at the representations made in
these prints, because not so much as any eircumstanee in them was full.
We have now this moneth bygone been in perfect peace here, and we con-
tinue so still, but I cannot say how long, for those who pretend to know my Lord
Hears negotiations at Elgin do say that it was only ane cessation of arms for a
few weeks and that now it is out. And I have really very good grounds to beleive
so, for Captain George Grant, notwithstanding of the prodigious storm that now
lyes on the ground, returned here again with 300 of the best appointed men that
ever I saw, and I am told he has appointed 400 more to be in readines upon
24 hours advertisement. But I hear nothing of my Lord Strathnaver or my
Lord lleav, nor no appearance of their returning. And that which appears to be
a greater loss to us, our general, the Earl of Sutherland, is gone himself aboard
of the ( Laifc ' in order to go for London, which is indeed a warmer quarters. But
yesternight I hear that Colonell Eeid is arrived in a man-of-warr at Cromertie,
express "from the Dnke of Argyll, to my Lord Sutherland. His lordship was to
saill as the next day after Colonell Keids aniveall ; whether that will stop his
lordship or not, a few days will discover.
It is very sure that both Seafort and Kuntly are makeing all preparations,
and our danger appears now to be greater than ever; and tlio these lords have
left us, I hope those worthy gentlemen who have so zealously and early appeared
for our releif (as they still continue to do) will be able to defeat the designes of
their and our enemies- Your freind, Colonell "William Grant, has had a rare post
of fatigue all this tyme at the house of Balvenie, in the heart of my Lord Huntlys
people. AVe hear they have made severall attacks upon him, but he has still
defeat them, and, we hear, has taken some of them prisoners. Indeed I would
not undertake his post for a great deall of money, but I reckon yow will say it is
because I want his courage. Thus we stand at present, and what I have said,
depend upon it, is matter of fact. If yow think there is anything considerable
done here, I hope yow will think the retakeing of our town not the least. I
assure yow, and upon just grounds, since I can avouch it by 1000 witnesses, it
is intirely oweing to my Lord Lovat, the lairds of Kilravoek, elder and younger,
Culloden, Captain George Grant, Mr. Duncan Forbes, aud Colonell William Grant ;
and I cannot help thinking that it were injustice done our country, as well as
these worthy patriots of it, not to have the rest of the nation acquainted with
171C] JOIIXy SECOXD DUKE OF ARGYLL. Gl
their firm and zealous behaviour upon this occasion, the doing whereof I referr to
your good self in any mauer yow think fltt, and boleive me to be without reserve,
dear sir, your most humble servant, (Sk 8ubscribitur) Tm Robertson.
Invernes, 30 January 171G.
63. John, second Duke of Argyll, to [John, fifteenth Earl of
Sutherland], — informing him of movements of the King's troops.
Aberdeen, 10th February 171G.
My Lord, — I am to acknowledge the favour of your lordships, and att the same
time to inform yon that I am eome to this place. The rebells, that is, those of
them who are in a body, are marched towards Castle Gordon by the way of Old
Meld rum ; and, by the best information that 1 can have, design to separate, and we
are here all of opinion to dispose his Majesties troops in different quarters. Four
battalions and two squadrons are destined for lnnerness and Murray, and will
march so soon as the money arrives from Edinburgh, aud that we have more cer-
tain advices of the motions of the rebells.
I am informed by Lord Haddo that the Marquis of Huntley was to have an
interview with your lordship in order to his submission to his Majesty. I should
be glad to know the state of affairs, and am, with the greatest respect, your lord-
ships most obedieut and most humble servant,
69. John, first Duke of Roxburghe, to John, fifteenth Earl of
Sutherland, — congratulating him on his successful campaign.
London, February the 13th, 17Jf.
My Lord, — I was honour'd some days ago with your lordships of the 29th from
on board the "Lark" friggot, and do from my heart congratulate you upon your
glorious aud suecessfull campaign. As your lordship has done your king and coun-
try great service, you have at the same time done your self and your family great
0:2
STATE AXD OFFICIAL LETTERS.
[171G.
honour. Blest be God that things are now in so good a posture, and that the
wicked designs of -the enemies of our religion and happy constitution have been
so remarkably bailed, and that the Pretender has only been able to disapoint and
deceive his own friends. His sneaking off iu such a manner, I hope, will soon
put an end to your lordships trouble, and indeed it is the earnest desire of all
your friends here that ) ou wou'd come to London as soon as the kings affairs
and your own convenicncy can allow you ; and before your lordship leaves Inver-
ness I hope you will put his Majestys officers in a right method of disarming the
rebels, so as that they may never be able to give your self and the government
any more trouble. I do assure your lordship that your presence will not only be
very agreable to your friends but is tnudy necessary, and as your conduct is
universally applauded, so I wish from my heart you may reap the just fruits of it.
— I am, with the greatest truth, my lord, your lordships most obedient and most
affectionate, humble servant,
To the right honourable the Earle of Sutherland, — thes.
70. John, second Duke of Argyll, to Jons, fifteenth Earl of
Sutherland, — instructing him to disarm the rebels.
Aberdeen, the 20th February 1716.
My Lord, — It being absolutely necessary for his Majesties service and the future
quiet of the government, altho the chiefs of the rebells were all apprehended,
that no arms should be left in the hands of any of the common people, who have
been in rebellion, or who, there is reason to suspect, are ill-enelind to his Majesties
government, I desire you will use your ntmost endeavours to disarm all such
persons and put their arms in places where they may be secure till there are
opportunitys of transporting them to his Majesties magasins. His Majesties
standing forees have orders to be assisting to you in the performance of this
service. — I am, with great respect, your lordships most obedient and most humble
servant, Argyll.
To the right honourable the Earl of Sutherland.
inc.] /. no set ii ox. C3
7.1. J. lior.ETHox to [John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland], — with con-
gratulations un. the honour the Earl had acquired. 21st February 1716.
My Lord, — J'ay bicn recti dan son tems la lettre dn 30 de Janvier dont il
vous a plu de ln'honorer. Je n'ay rien fait pour vostre service qui nieiite des
rcmcrciments si obligeants, et a quoy je ne fusse oblige par moil attacheineLt pour
le service de sa Majestu. Sir William Gordon poura ine rendre temoignage que
j'aurois voulu faire davantage, mais que mon credit n'a pas este assez grand.
Jamais personne ue vcrra avec plus de plaisir que moy, que le Roy recompeuce les
eminent* services que vous luy avez rendus ; et e'est a quoy je seruis ravy de
pouvoir eoutribuer.
J'ay pris beaucoup de part a la gloire que vous avez acquise. II n'^stoit pas
possible d'agir avee jjIus de prudence et de vigueur que vous avez fait. Chaemi
rend justice a vos grandes actions, mais personne ne le fait avec plus de sincerite
ct de plaisir que celuy qui est, avec beaucoup de respect, mylord, vostre tres
humble et ties obei*saut serviteur, J. liOEETHON.
St. James, le 21 Febvrier 1716.
Mt'S^eignenrs de BernstorfT et de Bothmer rn'ordonnent de vous asseurer de
lenrs ties humbles services, et de la part qu'ils out prise a vos heureux sueccz.
Je vous felicite de tout mon cceur du depart du Prcteudant et du bon suecez
dc no.s affaires en Eeosse.
Vuicy une lettre pour le frere de Sir 'William Gordon.
Translation.
My Lord, — I have duly received the letter of the 30th of January, with
which you have been pleased to honour me. I have done nothing on your behalf
which merits such abundant acknowledgments, and to which I was not obliged
by my attachment to the interests of his Majesty. Sir William Gordon ean
bear ine witness that I wished to do more, but that my influenee was not
sufficiently powerful. Xo one will sec with more pleasure than I the king
rewarding those eminent services that you have rendered him, and to that I would
be overjoyed to be able to contribute.
1 have taken much interest in the renown which you have won. No one
could possibly have acted with greater prudence and vigour than you did.
6i
STATE AXD OFFICIAL LETTERS.
[1716.
Everybody does justice to your great deeds, but none do so" with more sincerity
and pleasure than lie who is, with much respect, my lord, your very humble and
very obedient servant, J, Robethon.
St. James's, the 21st February 171G.
My lords of BernstorfT and Eothmer command me to assure you of their
very humble services, and of the interest which they have taken in your
happy success.
I congratulate you with all my heart on the departure of the Pretender, and
on the good success of our affairs in Scotland.
Inclosed is a letter for the brother of Sir William Gordon.
72. Lieu tenant-General William Cadogan, afterwards Karl Cadogan, to [John
fifteenth Earl of SutiierlandJ— stating the measures against the
rebels.
Aberdeen, 2G February 1716.
My Lord, — My having been indisposed ever since I came to this place hindred
me from acknowledging any sooner your lordships letter by Mr. Maeneile ; but
as I am now, God be thanked, pretty well recovered, I would not fail assuring
your lordship of my respects by the first opportunity. The conduct of my Lord
Iluntly and Lord Seaforth is very surprising; and since they have not thought
fit to accept the terms your lordship was authorised to offer them, in my opinion
they have freed you from any engagements you were under to them, but of this
your lordship can best judge. The Duke of Argyle went from hence on Fryday
towards Edenburgh, and will proceed on his journey from thence to London,
Thursday next. His Majesty has been pleased to appoint me to command the
army, and has given orders for pursuing the rebels very closely till the rebellion
is entirely plucked up by the roots. I have directed Major-Generall AVhiteman
to take post with a detachment att Reven [Ruthven] in Badenoeh, and to put
garrisons into all other places it shall be necessary to posses in order to disarm
such of Huntlys and Seaforths men, and others of the rebels who doe not
immediately give up their arms and submit to mercy. I sent a small detachment
from hence to the Breys of Mar, and upon their arrival all the rebels in those
parts brought in their arms and surrendred att discretion. The gentlemen and
heritors run away to the "Western Highlands. I design to set out to-day for
17 10.] JOIIX, FIRST DIKE OF AT HOLE. 65
IJdcnburgli/Vherc 1 shall continue about a week, and then goe to Ferth. I
should be extremely glad to have the honour of meeting your lordship on the
road when you intend for Edenbiirgh, which I therefore beg your lordship would
give me notico of. I imut likewise desire your lordship will be so kind to let
me know what passes on your side. And I have the honour to be, with the
greatest respect and esteem, your lordship's most obedient and most faithful
humble servant, War. Cadogan.
I must entreat your lordship to communicate to me in your next the methods
you shall think most proper to be token for putting speedily and effectually an
end to tlio rebellion.
73. Memorandum regarding a letter sent by John, first Duke of Athole,
to JOHN, FIFTEENTH EARL OF SUTHERLAND. 1
Blair Castle, March 30th 1716.
His GRACE wrote a letter, 0th Occtober 1715, to the Earl of Sutherland, and gave
the same to Grant of Dalrachnie, who was going north, and promised the said
letter should be deliver' d safly to his lordship. And accordingly, when he came
to the laird of Grants country, he shew'd the letter to Eoss of Killraick, who,
having allouance from the Earl of Sutherland to break open his letters, did break-
open The same, and found it was for his Majestys service, and sent the same to
the Earl of Sutherland, who afterwards oun'd to them that he had received it.
Some time after the Puke of Athole, having occasion to write to Captain George
Grant, brother to Brigadier Grant, and one of his deputy lieutenants, and being
informed that the Earle of Sutherland was at Innverness, desired him to give his
service to the earl, and since he had received his graces letter, to know the
reason why his lordship did not give an answer to it.
The above Captain George Grant being eome to this place this day, his grace
askthim if he did acquaint the Earl of Sutherland of what his grace did mention
in his letter to him, and the said Captain George Grant does acknowledge that
he did, according to his graces desire, ask the Earle of Sutherland why he did not
return an answer to his graces letter, but that the Earle of Sutherland would
give him no satisfaction about it, yett acknowledged he had received his graces
letter.
1 In Athole Charter-chest.
I
6G STATE AM) OFFICIAL LETTERS. [1710.
74. J. Robetiion to [John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland],— about the earl's
visit to Hanover.
Au Guhre, lc 21 Octobre 171 G.
My Lord, — Jay recu vos 2 lettres, et ayant parle a sa majeste poui' la presser
de vous permettre do venir, elle m'a ordoime do vous reraercier du zele que
vous continuez a. luy inontrer par eet empressement, inais de vous dire q'elle ne
]>eut pas vous loger icy, ear tout y est plein ;- et on y attend encore le Due et la
Dnchesse de Blank cnbourg, le Prince Dottingen, et la Duehesse de Cell avec leur
suitte. Et pour ce qui est de venir quand nous retournerons a Hannover (ce qui ne
sera que dans 5 ou G semaines), sa majeste ne vous le eonseille pas, ear la saison
sera alors trop advnncee, et il sera terns de songer a se rendre au parlenient, ou
sa majestd aura besoin de vos services ; et desire que vous y soyer de bonne
heure. Outre que si sa majeste prend la resolution d'aller tenir le parlement elle
mesme, eomme il le faut esperer, vous arriveriez a Hannover quand sa majeste
seroit preste a en partir. J'espere done, mylord, que ce sera a Londres, que
nous nous verrons et bientost, et que j'auray l'honneur de vous y assurer de
bouehe du respect avec lequel je suis, mylord, vostre trcs humble et tres obeissant
serviteur, J- Eoeeton.
Mr, Stanhope m'a dit qu'ayant aussy parle" au roy de vous permettie de venir,
il a eu la mesme reponee.
Translation.
Gohre, 21th October 171G.
My Lord, — I have received your two letters, and having spoken to his majesty
to solicit him to permit you to come, he has commanded me to thank you for
the zeal which you continue to manifest for him with so much heartiness, but to
tell you that he cannot lodge you here, as every place is full, and we still wait
the coming of the Duke and Duehess of Llaukenbourg, the Prince Dottingen, and
the Duchess of Cell, with their suite. And as for coming when we return to
Hanover, which will be in five or six weeks, his majesty would not advise it, for
the season will then be too far advanced, and it will be time to think of returning
to Parliament, where his majesty will require your services, and he desires that
you be there early. Moreover, if his majesty resolves to attend the parliament
I71G.] EXTRACTS FROM LETTERS OF MONSIEUR ROBETHON, G7
in-person, as will be expected, you would reaeh Hanover when he will be ready
to set out on his journey. I hope, therefore, my lord, that it will be at London
that we shall see each other, and that shortly, and that I will have the honour of
assuring you there personally of the respect with which I am, my lord, your
very humble and very obedient servant, J. RoBETON.
Mr. Stanhope tells me, that, having also spoken to the king for permission to
you to eonie, he has received the same reply.
75. Extracts from Letters of Monsieur Roretiion, — that the King would
be pleased to see Lord Sutherland at Hanover, 5 November 1710.
Extrait de la lefctre de Monsieur de Robethon h my Lord Cadogan,
le 5 e Xovembre 1716, noveau style.
Je VOL'S prie, my lord, de dire a my Lord Sutherland, a qui je n'ecris pas faute
de terns, que je viens de lire au Roy la lettre- qu'il m'a ecrite, et que sa Majeste- a
marque pour luy bcauconp d'e^time et d'affection ; et m'a dit qu'elle seroit fort
aise de le voir a Hannover, etant fort faehee de n'avoir pas icy de quoy le loger.
Au Gohre, le 5 Xovembre 171G.
p.S. — Je ne fais pas reponee a my Lord Southerland. Je vous prie de luy
dire, que je viens de lire la lettre au Roy, qu'il m'a ecrite, et que sa Majeste a
marqu6 beaueoup d'affection pour luy, et m'a dit qu' elle seroit fort aise de le voir
a Ilannovre, etant faehee. de n'avoir point de logement pour luy au Gohre.
Indorsed : Extrait de la lettre de Monsieur Robethon a Monsieur Clyngraff,
5 Xovenibre 17 1G, noveau style.
Translation.
Extract from the letter of M. de Robethon to my Lord Cadogan, the
5th November 1716, new style.
I EEG, my lord, that you will tell my Lord Sutherland, to whom I have not
written for want of time, that I have just read to the king the letter which he
wrote me, and that his Majesty showed much esteem and affection for him. He
03 STATE AXD OFFICIAL LETTERS. [1716.
told me that he would be very pleased to fee him at Hanover, being much
troubled at not having any accommodation for him here.
Gohre, the 5th November 171 G, new style.
P.S.— I made no reply to my Lord Sutherland. I beg you to tell him that
I have just read to the king liis letter which he wrote to me, and that his Majesty
has evinced much affectum for him, and bade me say that he would be very
pleased to see him at Hanover, being disappointed at not having a lodging for
him at Gohre.
Indorsed: Extract from the letter of M. de Robethon to M. Clyngraff,
5 November 1716, new style.
76. John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland to Mr. Robethon, — Success
of the King's arms against the rebels, 10 June 1719.
Sir, — I most heart illy congratulate yon upon the success of the kings arms
against the rebells upon the Pretenders birthday. There were no highlanders
with the kings forces, but some of mine and the Mimroes, a few of them. They
behaved, as I could have wished, to the approbation of the generall and every
body else. As I was still so happy as to have a share in your frindship, I must
entreate it at this juncture. Air. Addison is dead, and his post of teller in the
exchecquer wold make me easie. There is a year and an halfe due of the small
.sallary I have, which does not amount to the. interest of what 1 have laid out for
the sake of the protestant succession, and this addition would help me to live and
to get out of debt by degrees. My humble and hearty respects to Monsieur
Barronstorf, and tell him my pretensions are so just I depend upon his favour
and interest. I have wreten to Earle Stanhope, and will speake to the Earle
of Sunderland tomorrow. I am sure the Duke of Roxburgh will do the same.
I am, with all respect and esteem possible, dear sir, your most oblidged, humble
servant.
Marlborough Streett, 19 th of June 1719.
Inscribed : Coppy of my letter to Mr. Robethon.
1720.] JAMES, FIRST DUKE OF J10XTROSE. 60
77. James, first Duke of Montrose [to John, fifteenth Earl of
Sutherland], — congratulations on the victory at Glenshtel.
Hanover, the 1 1 th July 1719.
My Lord, — I cant but take the furst oporlunety of congratulating with your
lordship upon the gallant behaviour of your men in conjunction with his Majesties
troops against the rebells.
On Fry Jay morning last, a messenger brought the agreeable news of the
defait. I need not tell yow of the pleasure I had when I heard of the share your
lordships men had in the honour of the day, since I flatter my self yow will
alhvays do me the justice to belive that I cant be indifferent in any thing that
concerns yow.
His Majestie, God be thanked, is in perfect good health. All your friends
here are well, and I assure yow, my Lord Sutherland is not forgot amongst them.
I am all ways with the greatest respect and truth, my dear lord, your lordships
most humble and obedient servant,
7S. JoilN, FIFTEENTH EARL OF SUTHERLAND to JAMES, EARL OF STANHOPE,—
thanking the Earl for favours bestowed on the family for their services.
Marlborough Street, 1st of August 1720.
My Lord,— I was soe loaded with affliction for the loss of my sou, when I wrote
to your lordship upon the 26 of July, that I am atfraied I was wanting in repre-
senting to your lordship the true sense I had of the kings great favor and goodnes
in continuing to the family what he had been graciously pleased to bestow upon
my son in consideration of his services. His eldest son is forteen years of age,
and I have all of them rivet ted in the respect aud devotion they owe to his
Majestie, soe as to abhor the Pretender aud all the kings enemys. I have not
words to express how much I am obleidged to your lordship for this last favor in
disapointing the designs of my enimys, and supporting of a family that wold not
have been in soe low circumstances as to want it, if it had not been my zeal for
the Revolution and to support King William upon the throne, as weel as my
indefatigable application to promote the protestant succession, to the detriment of
my fortune above thirtie thousand pounds. The pleasure I have this day to see
TO
STATE AXD OFFICIAL LETTERS.
[1720.
King George, for whom I have soe long sLruglud, happily established upon the
British throne, makes me forgett all the losses and expenses I have been att.
Yett, my dear lord, I should not be soe forgo tt as to lett a thousand pounds
yearly to myself, and half as much for the education of my grandchild! en, be all
the consideration I have for the great sonmes due to me and for my services.
Your lordship was pleased to tell me that you thought it very hard that soin thing
further was not done for me, and that your lordship and my Lord Sunderland
wold speak to the king, to gett me some further mark of his Majestys favor. I
was soe near deaths door when your lord&hip went over with the king, that I
eould know nothing of what was done. Your lordship was pleased also to say
that I should be added to the privey counsel!. I here nothing in relation to
either. I am persuaded, as I have had many markes of your lordships favor, if
you wold pleas to lay befor his Majesty my pretensions and services, his Majestys
justice and goodnes is such, that I don't doubt of success. I can give your
lordship the instance of a gentleman, who is one of the eomissioners of the
customs, and is also a comissioner of the board of police, and has four sones who
have employments in the government. I also know a marqniss of my country
who has three thousand pounds yearly. Were the government in those cir-
cumstances as to bestow noe more then what I have upon any, I should be
satisfied, or that those upon whom such favors are conferred had done more for it
then I, then to complain were wrong, but I am with the greatest respect
and esteem possible.
My lord, I wrote to your lordship concerning the sheriveship of Invernes now
vacant by my sones death.
Indorsed : A eoppy of a letter to Earl Stanhope, 1st August 1720.
79. John, first Duke of Eoxburghe, to John, fifteenth Earl of Suther-
land, — the King had conferred on him the Chamberlainry of Ross.
Eroxmouth, August the 2d 1720.
My Lord, — I was honour'd with your lordships of the 2Gth of July last post,
and that same day had a letter from my Lord Stanhope acquainting me that the
king had been pleas'd to give your lordship the place of collector of the eham-
berlanry of the crown lands in Ross, with the yearly peusion of five hundred
1727.] JOHX t FIRST DUKE OP 110XBCUGIIE. 71
pounds, which 3*0 ur son, the late Lord Strathnaver, enjoyed, and signifying to me
at the same time that it was his Majesty's pleasure that the proper instruments
shoud be prepared accordingly.
I do assure your lordship I do most heartily condole with you upon the death
of my Lord Strathnaver, and sincerely wish that his children may live to be a
comfort to you; and I hope I need not tell your lordship that it is great plea-
sure to me that his Majesty has been pleased to give you the ehamerlaury of
Ross. I have transmitted my Lord Stanhope's letter to Mr. Delafaye, and doubt
not but the proper instruments will be prepared' without loss of time, so shall
trouble your lordship no further at present, only beg leave to assure you that I
am, with the greatest respect, my lord, your lordships most humble and most
obedient servant, Roxeurghe.
80. John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to Sir Roeert Walpole, — re-
gretting his inability to be present at the coronation, 27th September
1727. Draft.
To Sir Kobert \Valpole.
Sir,— 1 flattered my self with the hopes that, when the election of the peers was
over here, I should have the satisfaction of walking att the coronation, but, to my
inexpressable sorrow, the gout has seazed me soe as to deprive me of that hap-
pines, soe that I must entirly depend upon your freindship as to what relates to
me, and ther being a new establishment to be made, I trust you will be soe good
■ as to take care that I, who have spent a great part of my substance for the gover-
ment and ventured my person whenever occasion offered, shall be putt upon ane
equall footing with such as have done noe more. I never was absent one session
of parliament or one day, but when the gout or oth^r sicknes hindred mc. "What
you doe for me shall still be most gratfully acknowledged, being, with all
sincerity and respect possible,
Edinburgh, September 27, 1727.
Sir, — You may please to remember that, when I told you that I thought I
was not considered as I ought to have been, your answer was that you were not
att the making of the establishment, but, when it was in your power, you wold
doe for me.
STATE AXD OFFICIAL LETTERS. [1727
SI, John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to Jonx, second Duke of
Argyll, — : to speak to Sir Kobert Walpole in his behalf, 23d November
1727. Draft.
To the Duke of Argyll.
My Lord, — I called severall times for your grace befor I left London, and went
onee to your house near Richmond, but had the misfortune to miss of you. The
election of the peers having gone a souhaite, I was designing to have the happines
to walk att the coronation, when my old enimie the gout disapointed me of that
happines. If my wifes health will permitte her, she will. My grandson bein^
chosen for to represent the shire of Sutherland, I entreat your graces favor and
freindship in supporting him, he not being in the tearmes of the last resolution
of the house, it being only mentioned ther peers eldest sones, and his case may
not happen in ane age. Since I cannot possibly be att London soe soon, I most
earnestly beg the favor of your grace to speak to the seeretarys of state and Sir
liobert AYalpole, that, in framing the establishment, I may be particularly taken
care of, and that others, who neither ever ventured either ther substanee or
persons more, be not putt upon a better footing then my self. The dependanee I
have upon your graces goodnes emboldnes rne to take this freedome. What you
are pleased to doe for me or mine shall never but meet with a gratefull return
from,
Edinburgh, 23d November 1727.
My Lord, — I had the honour- of your graces from Sudbrook of the 13th, and
return you my unfeigned thanks for the assurances you are pleased to give me
and my grandson of your favor and freindship. I am not yet able to goe from one
room to another without the help of a cane. Soe soon as 1" recover the least
strenth soe as to be able to bear a eoaeh, I, God willing, design for London, beincr,
with sincere respeet, my lord,
Duke of Argyll.
JOIiy, FIFTEENTH EARL OF SUTHERLAND.
82. John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to Thojias Holles, Duke of
Newcastle, Secretary of State, — offers made to the Earl by the Earl
of Oxford, 23 November 1727. Draft.
My Lord, — I was designing, after the election of the peers here, to have been atb
the coronation, when I was most unseasonably sensed by the gout, and that in soe
violent a maner that it swelled all my right arm and hand soe as to incapacitate
me from writting, or else I had given your grace the trouble of a letter long ere
now, the affaires of this part of the kingdome being in your graces province.
I think it my duty to apply to you, and had done sooner, but your- grace was not
att London when I left it, att which time I gave in a short memoriall to the king,
and which your grace can vouch for the truth of, being eye witnes to the zeal
with which I acted for our present happy establishment. I doubt not but such
as behaved themselves weel then will meet with some markes of distinction now.
"When the Earl of Oxford, in the late queens time, invited me to eome in, and
that he wold gett me a post suitable to my rank and quality, and that he wold
take eare that I should be payed the arrears of the regiments I had raised about
the time of the Revolution, notwithstanding all these kind proffers, I neither went
near him nor accepted of them, not approving of ther measures. Not being able to
attend my own affaires att London now, I hope your grace will be soe good as
to take care of my concernes according to the enclosed memoriall which I pre-
sented to the king ; that of the admiralty of Orkney and Zetland is the only thing
past, and it yeelds very litle what I had befor in the late king[s] time. Begging
your graces pardon for this trouble, I am, with all sincerity and respect possible,
Edinburgh, 23d November 1727. 1
To the Duke of Newcastle.
83. John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to — Address wanting [Duke of
Newcastle], — recommending his grandson, circa 1727. Draft.
My Lord, my illnes preventing my going to London, I hope your grace, whose
freindship I depend upon, will not be unmindfull of my concerns. I shall lett
1 On the same day a letter in similar terms to this was written by the Earl of Sutherland ;
but no address is given in the draft.
K
74 STATE AXD OFFICIAL LETTERS. [1727.
noc time slip when T recover any strenth to begin my journey. This comes by
my grandson, who goes from hence to-morrow. 1 lecomend him to your graces
favor and protection, and hope you will countenance him and assist him against
Fiieh as may oppose him att this time, which will be a favor not to be forgott
either by him or by, my lord, your graces
84. Mr. George Muneo, Newton, to William, sixteenth Earl of Suther-
land, — about measures for protecting the county of Sutherland from
theft. 11th July 1737.
My Lord, — Saturdays night ] hade the honour of your lordships of the 9th,
and then wrote to Lieutenant MThcrson of Lord Lovats company, and to Lieu-
tenant M'Farlane of Captain Grants company, who commands the detachment
attending the custom-house at Inverness, to which I got the inclosed return from
Lieutenant M'Farlane, and 1 think your lordship should wryte by this post to
Brigadier Guest to know if he received these directions from Generall Wade, and
s«'ut his ordcis accordingly to Lord Lovats and Captain Grants company's, and
that your loidship think that 30 men or thereby would be a suficient number to
Like care of your countrey and the passes leading thereto. Just now 1 am
informed, by ane express from my company at Lochaber, that upon Fry day last,
when some of Lord Lovats men came to Glengarry, in order to go to Lochaber
to search for the last pareell of catle taken out of Corrykcanloch, as your lordship
wrote to Lieutenant MTherson ; then the detachments of my company, who
were in Glengarry and Lochairkaig, joynd these men, and went to examine who
were then absent from that countrey, and if any strange catle could be found in
that countrey, etc. Upon Fry day List the men 1 sent to Gleuiach and Achnashiel-
lach to gaurd the passes in the hcighths of the parishes of Contan and Lochcarron,
returned after they were credibly informed that the catle they went to stop were
returned in Lochbroom paroch. We, the justices of the peace, have ordered a
pairty of 12 men of the countrey men to go to the Breas of this countrey to pre-
serve it from theft, and we have given them a moneth's subsistance in the begin-
ing.and will continow them longer, as we shall see ocasion. I think your lordship
should do the like till the detachments you expect come.
My most humble duty to the Countess of Sutherland, and to the Lady Assint
17 14.] JOIIX, FOURTH MARQUIS OF TWEEDDALE.
and Miss Clapane; and I am, with much esteem and respect, my lord, your lord-
ships most obedient, lluthmll, -humble servant, Geo. Mux no.
Newtovnie, 11th Jully 1737.
85. John, fourth Marquis of Twkeddale, to William, sixteenth Earl of
Sutherland, — intimating his appointment to be first Lord of the
Police in Scotland.
Whitehall, 1 December 1744.
My Lord, — His majesty having been pleased to name you to be the first Lord of
the Police in Scotland, has thought proper at the same time to give the govern-
ment of the castle of Blackness to Charles Hope Weir, Esq., and the new com-
mission of police goes by this post to Mr. Thomas Hay, keeper of the signet at
Edinburgh.
Give me leave on this occasion to wish your lordship jo} f , and to assure you
that I am, with great regard, my lord, your lordship's most humble servant,
TWEEDDALE.
P.S. — I hope to have the pleasure of seeing you here soon,
Earl of Sutherland.
86. Robert Cratgte of Glexdoick, lord advocate, to "William, sixteenth
Earl of Sutherland, intimating Report as to the Pretender's eldest son.
Edinburgh, 5th August 1745.
My Lord, — The lords justices haveing received intelligence that a report is
current at Paris that on the 15th of July the Pretender's eldest son embarked
near to Kantz on board of a privateer (formerly a French man-of-war) of 64
guns, attended with another privateer of 25 guns, having on board 70 gentlemen
guards and 300 volunteers with arms and amunition, with an intention to
land in Scotland, where he expects to be joined by the Highlanders, I think it
my duty to inform your lordship of this intelligence, that you may not be
surprized with various rumours that possibly may be spread, grafted on this
French report ; and, at the same time, that in case such rumours should be
attended with any consequences in the Highlands to the disturbance of the
publick peace, that your lordship may be prepared to exert yourself and to
7 G STA TE A XD OFFICIA I LETTEUS. [1 7 4 5.
use your power in the Highlands iu such manner as your known zeal to his
Majestys service will dispose you to act upon all occasions.
As your lordship will no doubt have the best intelligence of any motions
that may be in the Highlands at this juncture, it wou'd be of great use to his
Majestys servants that act in this place, if your lordship wou'd be so good as to
communicate the same to us that we may inform the lords justices, and that we
may take such measures as may be most proper from time to time for the safety
of the government, and for the preservation of the public peace.
I have the honour to be, with the greatest respect, my lord, your lord-
ships most faithfull, most obedient servant, Rob. Craigie.
Indorsed : Letter, Lord Advocate to Lord Sutherland, 5th August 1745.
87. William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, to Mi:. Kobert Craigie of
Glendoick, lord advocate, with proposals for the defence of the
Highlands in view of the expected invasion. 1
Dunrobin, 1 1th August [1745.]
My Lord, — Your favour is now before me, by which you inform me that the
lords justices had intelligence that a report was current at Paris that the
Pretenders eldest son had embarked with an intention to land in Scotland,
where he expected to be joined by the Highlanders. This intelligence, 1 have
many reasons to apprehend, is but too well founded. I have had private intelli-
gence to the same purpose within these two days, and have sent to acquaint the
Duke of Argyll of it ; and I have several reasons to think that the Pretenders
son expects to be joined by too many in the Lowlands as well as in the High-
lands, and that a general insurrection is designed of the disaffected party, both
south and north. It happens greatly amiss in such an emergency that his
Majestys firmest friends in the Highlands are destitute of arms and ammunition
for their own defence and his Majestys service, when his most inveterate enemies
are too well provided, and threaten, as I am certainly informed/ in less than a
fortnights time to do all the mischief that their malice, armed with fire and
sword, can effect, to such of their neighbours as are most attached to his Majestys
1 Letter printed in " The Critic," 2 August 1S45, in a review of " Memoirs of the Pre-
tenders and their adherents," by John Heneage J ease, 1S45.
1745.] WILLIAM, SIXTEENTH EARL OF SUTHERLAND.
person and government. I and Lord Reay, with our vassals, eouM raise eighteen
hundred or two thousand men, and with these eould effectually bridle all the
public enemies north of us, and do considerable service also against the more
numerous enemies on the other baud of us. But what can we do without arms or
ammunition 1 I made early application to Sir John Cope for a proper supply, on
the surmises we had of a French invasion near two years ago, but my applications
have unhappily been neglected, till now there is danger that a supply will come
too late. I am causing to be gathered in and brushed up all the arms in ihis country,
which, between me and Lord Rely, I doubt not will make above two hundred
stand, and we shall need at least sixteen hundred more of swords and guns, with
proportional ammunition. I pray, by all the regard you and others of his Majestys
ministers have for his Majestys serviee and interest, that you will instantly order
a sloop here with arms and ammunition as above, to be delivered to me on my
receipt. It will be further necessary, my lord, that a proper person have a com-
mission directly sent to him, to act as lord lieutenant of the northern shires. If
I am honoured with that commission I shall take the utmost care to fulfil it with
equal zeal and fidelity as my grandfather did in the time of the former rebellion.
Yon have inclosed, my lord, a true copy of a contract of mutual friendship I
entered into with Lord Eeay,in prospect of the invasion and rebellion that seems
to be on the point of breaking out. I again entreat, in the most earnest manner,
that a proper supply may be sent me of arms and ammunition, as above, without
any loss of time. If that supply does not come within twenty days at farthest,
it may eost his Majesty abundance of men and money to recover the loss his
interest may sustain in the north, which the supply mentioned coming timeously,
might enable me, with Lord Keays assistance, to prevent. I shall take care from
time to time to communicate to you and others of his Majestys servants any
motions that may be in the Highlands at this juncture, and take proper measures
to get the best intelligence I can for that purpose. I am, with great respect, etc.,
Sutherland.
88. George, third Lord Reay, to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland,
— as to arrangements for sending men to Sir John Cope. [September 1745.]
My dear Lord, — I have just now the honour of your lordships of the 31st, and
Major Maekays message from Sir John Cope, to whom I shall immediately run
STATE AND OFFICIAL LETTERS.
[1745.
an express to acquaint him that I shall send along with these you are to send
first to him about \ 40 men without ariiia, and I shall see to have them named
and fixed as soon as the situation of the country can allow, for your lordship
knowes ther s a great distance betwixt Edderachiles, Durness, and Halladale.
Your lordship will give me at least five dayes warning to conveen my men, and I
judge you mean by the march of these of the parish of Farr, that they all wise
joine these of this country in proportion to the numbers to be sent out, as none
of a clan, or of the same name and country, will ever do so good service as when
joined together in one body, and I judge none has the interest of the cause and
the honour of the good behaviour of the men of the county more at heart than
your lurdship. This was the case at Argyls Host, and in 1715 by express
orders from your father and grandfather. How to get provisions to our men
when they meet in Dornoch is, to me, a great straite. As I can't say we 're quite
safe in certain events, so your lordship should insist still on more arms than what
the men goes out requires. I am, with great respect, my dear lord, your lord-
ships most obedient, affectionate, humble servant, Reay.
Your lordship is to depend that, with God's assistance, Tie never faile in my
duty to the government, or in my agreement with yuur lordship.
89. George, third Lord IIeay, to "William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland,
— referring to their joining in strict friendship, 9 September 1745.
My dear Lord, — I have the honour of your lordships of the 3d, and am glad
that Sir John Cope, Lord President, and I am sure the Duke of Argyle, yea all
the kings friends, have a different opinion of our joining in strick friendship
than the. authors of the letters your lordship sent me, and which I return. Lady
S r is certainly imposed on by the cunning of others, and will be easily
undeceived, which every step of my behaviour will contribute to. Want of arms
was the only reason why Sir John Cope did not call for any of our men. But
plenty will be sent to Inverness. I send yon the last letter I had from him,
which please return. I wrote him when I got the message by Major Mackay;
but it could not overtake him, nor is the express yet returned. But, as he
marched last Wednesday he'l call for no men at this time.
I have not yet heard that the king has named any lord lieutenant, and till
17 15.] GEORGE, THIRD LORD RE AY. 79
then, knowes not whom to apply to. Any is named will be fond to give deputa-
tion-) to any your lordship desires. But three deput lieutenants muot sign every
warraudj for a fewer number can't 'aet. I shall eorieurr with your lonUhip in
naming any you think most proper. Their should be three in this corner of the
shire, and as many below as your lordship pleases, but still such as will he
directed by you. I will coneurr with you in every step, and did allready all wad
need full in what you recomend to me, and will inforec it by an express I'm to
send to-morrow to Inverness. I wish my lord president was lord lieutenant, as
lie is a worthy, good man, brave, and steneh. to the 'cause.
1 beg yon'l acquaint me in your next of the state of your heal[t]h, and if Lady
Sutherland is any better of her lameness.
If none of onr troops are landed at south Sir John Cope will not get easily to
Stirling, if the rebells, as reported, are at Perth and 5000 strong. And 1 pray
Cod the report of a foreign landing at Peterhead may be false. The ly of the
day will be current on such oecasious. But let us trust in Gnd, and do our duty
in the best manner we can.
My son was last Saturday at Inverness with his company, being a pareell
of pretty fellows, wherof one will not desert him. He was in a bad state of
health, which detained him some dayes, but has followed the generall. My
runner tells me that the only bags the rebells allowed to come north were tlieoe
for Thurso, AViek, and Kirkwall. If your lordship was told this as the Caithness
post pas'd by, you should have oppened these bags under pretence of seeing the
newespapers and seen any suspected persons letters, or, if you did not care to be
e*-en in it yourself, could cause it be done by others. But was I shirriff I
would make no scruple to oppen any bag or letters the rebells past, when they
seized others, and yon should mind this next occasion. Your lordship needs
make no excuse to me for imploying Mr. Anderson to write paper or any such.
1 he more easy for you and the less of ceremony the more agreeable to me. I
may be obliged to use the same freedom with your lordship, but still shall be
sure of the person writes for me. On the main I have not the least fear of the
success of our cause, and I have the honour to be, with great truth and respect
my dear lord, your lordships most affectionate, most faithfull humble servant,
Reay.
Tongue, 9 September 1745.
Indorsed : Letter, Lord Reay to Lord Sutherland, 9th September 1745.
80 STATE AND OFFICIAL LETTERS. [1745.
90. Duncan Fordes of Cullodln, lord president of the court of session, to
William, sixteenth Karl of Sutherland, — intimating the arrival of
arms at Lcith from the Tower, 12th September 1745.
My Lord, — Last night the letter, which your lordship did me the honour to write
to me of the 11th, was delivered. It expresses properly your lordships zeal for
the support of the government, which must give satisfaction to every ono that
wishes well to it, and your readiness to defend it.
Your lordships reflexion, that nothing can be clone for that end to purpose
without arms, is very just, and it is to suply that want that 0000 stand of arms
are sent from the Tower. These anus are actually arrived at Leith, and a good
number of them would have been here before this time had Sir John Cope beeu
at Edinburgh. So soon as he arrives there he has promised to send them, and
the moment that happens your lordship shall have notice. We are at present in
a sort of tranquillity in this country, as the rebells are gone to the southward.
How long that quiet may last is uncertain ; and therefore, what the kings
dutiful] subjects in this country have to do, as it appears to me, is to keep their
men in readyness to act on the shortest warning for the security of the govern-
meut and for their own protection, untill the expected arms arrive and a proper
occasion offer of doing more effectual service. The orders for giving out the
arms are with the governor of Inverness, who shall have my advice when they
come • and when anything to the purpose may be done with them, to put as
many of them as may be necessary in your lordships hands, whose affection to
the government is on the best grounds so unquestionable.
As for your neighbours tu the northward, if 1 do not mistake the men, they
are too wise, even were they ill-disposed, to venture to force a passage whilst
your lordship is in the way. If they send droves to the southward in the cir-
cumstances in which things now are, they must have armed men attending them.
Lut then, should the numbers of these men be so great beyond the occasion as to
give just reason to think that the driving the catle is intended only as a pretence
to colour the sending to the southward a body of armed men, your lordship will
be justifyfed] for hindering them to pass. But I am hopefull no such thing will
bo attempted.
With respect to intelligence, I know litle more than what the prints will
inform your lordship of. Only five battallions have actually sailed from the
17 1.1.] JOHN, FOURTH EAEL OF LOUDOUN. $\
J)atch coast, and the rest are embarking. The dispositions for their ren-pilon
were actually made at Leith last Friday, and it's more than probable some of
them are there before this time. Generall Cope arrived at Aberdeen, as I have
irason to think from a letter dated at Turrcf, which I received from him a, Li4
night. H[e] has found shipping enough at that port to transport his troops to
the southwards, should that be his choice. But whether that will be his coim>',
or if he will wait at Aberdeen for the Highlanders, or if he will follow them by
html, must depend very much on their numbers and situation, which I at present
know nothing particular about. Lord George Murray -has, much contrary to
expectation, put himself at the head of the Atholl men and joined the rebclU,
which probably will encrease their numbers, but will not add much to th< ir
fighting men. Captain Mackay, hearing of Gleubuckets being in his way wiih
•J or IjOO armed men, struck off from Elgin to the Brugh sea, and from thence
followed Sir John Cope by sea. I am, with perfect respect, my lord, your
lordship's most obedient and most humble servant, Dux. Foui.es.
Culloden, 12th September 1715, 11 before noone.
To the right honourable the Earl of Sutherland att Dunrobin.
SIXTEEN 1 " LETTERS from Joux, fourth Earl of Loudoun, commander-in-
chief of the King's forces in the norch of Scotland, to William, six-
teenth Earl of Sutherland.
91. (I.) Arrangements for the forces under his command.
Inverness, October 24th, 1745.
My Lord, — I have not done myself the honour to writ to your lordship since my
arrival hear, becaus, as I was sent to comand the forses in this part of the
country, that is, the troopes in the garisons and the independant corapanyes now
to be raised, I did not find myself in a coudesion to act, therefore thought it was
proper for me to lie quiet till I had got a body of people together ; and your
lordship very well knowes, if I had begun to writ to your lordship, whoes friend-
ship I relie on, it would have been cause of fewed with other people, who [are]
not so conversent in busiues aud the afairs of the world as you are.
L
S2
STATE AXD OFFICIAL LETTERS. [1745.
I have had the pleasure to see Major Mackay hear, who has given me a full
account of your lordships zeal for our masters service and for the good of our
country. He tclles me he has seen the company embarqued in order to come
hear j but as they are not yet arived, I am afraid they have been drove back by
coutrary winds. *And in case Captain Gun should be short of money, I have
beged the favour of the major to cary him some to enable him to bear the
expence of bringing his company hear, where I shall e[n]devour to make everything
as agreeable to them as I can, as I am sure every body that wishes well to this
contry must relay on people sent from your lordship.
I would willingly have sent arms for them, but as there are some people in
this country who might thinke it worth there while to have intercepted them,
1 should not have been able to answer hearafter for having put thos folkes in
the power of arming so many of his Majestyes enemyes against him. I believe
they will not venture to attack men who they are sure will not join with them,
and I shall order boats to meet them at Cromerty as soon as I have your direc-
tions; and if your lordship will be so good as spair them some few of those arms
you have for there protection, I will take the best care I can to return them.
I beg your lordship will be so good as make my compliments acceptable to
my Lady Sutherland, for whom I have the greatest regard.
I am, with great esteem and friendship, my lord, your lordships most
obedient humble servant, Loudoun.
p.£._Some dayes hance I shall have an opportunity of sending letters by a
man of war, who brought some arms hear. If your lordship has any to send I
shall take particular care of them.
We are still but sparingly supplied with arms, but I hope we shall soon have
more, and then I shall be extramly glade to contribut all in my power to
accomodat with what you may think nessesary. ■ Once more, my dear lord,
adiew.
92. (2.) Commending Captain Gun's company. .
Inverness, October 27, 1745.
My Lord,— I had the honour of your lordships of the 2 2d by the bearer, who
came along with Captain Guns company, who are very fine men. I have not yett
review'd them in form, having been obliged yesterday to go to Colloden about
1745.] JOIIX, FOURTH EARL OF LOUDOVX. S3
business ; but by what I saw of them when they came up to the castle for there
nrms they and there officers will do credit to the country they come from.
I have returned the arms your lordship was so good as to send with them.
As to newes from the south we have non sertain, but that our array must
probably by this time have mett with the Highlanders, and we expect good
newes from thence to-morow or nixt day. AVe have great comotion among our
neighbours hear, but I believe that will soon be over. As soon as I have any
intelligence worth troubling your lordship with I shall send an express witli it.
I beg your lordship will make my compliments to my Lady Sutherland, and
that your lordship will believe me to be, with great esteem and reguard, my lord,
your lordships most obedient humble servant, Loudoun.
93. (3.) The course he is adopting with those who have given their oath to
the enemy.
Inverness, November 24, 1745.
My Loud, — I have little newes to writ at presant, but that there are four
regiments arived in Edinburgh, Prices and Legoneers regiments of foot, and
Gardeners and Hamiltons dragoons. We have no sertain account where the
rebells are. The sloop of war in which your lordships letters are is put back
into Cromerty by contrary winds. As to our situation hear we are now become
strong enough to begine to curb our irregular neightbours, which I shall begine
to immediatly if they will not grow wise enough to quite there desparat scames.
This goes by two men I have sent to Pornich market to pick up some of
Captain Alexander Mackay's company who are still in that part of the country.
They, that is part of them, took what was called an oath never to serve against the
Fretender or his airs, directly contrary to the oath they had taken tother day
when they were attested, and which must bind them against all subsequent
oathes. Besides it would have a very pernisious consequance to allow privat men
to imagine they of themselves without there comanding officer could come
under any seperat engadgments with an enemy. I have allready got a great
many of them back from Lord Keas country, who are now perfectly sattisfied. I
send those men to perswade them, and dont meen to punish any that return to
there duty now, tho' by our lawes there crime is desertion and the punishment
death. If your lordship will be so good as give orders to your people to say it
84 STATE AXD OFFICIAL LETTERS. [1 745.
will be agreeable to you that such of them as live in your bounds should return
to there duty, it \\\\\ be of jjjre.it use to his Majestyes service and a particular
favour to me. I beg your lordship will be so good as to make my compliments
aeeeptable to my Lady Sutherland, and that you will believe me to be, with great
truth and real friendship, my lord, your lordships most obedient and most hnnible
servant, Loudoun.
94. (4.) The desertion of many of the soldiers.
Inverness, December 19th, 1745.
My Lord, — I have this minut an account of a very great number of Captain
Guns company having desarted, and of a great many of Captain Sutherlands
being in danger of doing the same at a time when they are wanted very much ;
for I have but just now got a body of people collected to enable me to be of
service to our master and our country, which will be greatly hindered by this
imforseen accident and, as every man has enimies, I am afraid may be laved hold
of to your disadvantage; and I hope your lordship will fall on some method to
remidy this without loss of time. I beg you will make my compliments to my
Lady Sutherland, and believe me to be, with great truth and esteem, my lord,
your lordships most obedient and most humble servant, Loudoun.
95. (5.) With military news.
Inverness, January 13, 174 J.
My Lord, — I had this minut the honour of your lordships by the bearer, and as
to intelligence I can give your lordship very little that is certain, for tho we had
a Kingorn boat tother day, which was dispatched .by the admirality to Lord
Findlater, with orders to lay on an embargo on ships loaded with black eatle,
beeff, or pork, I got no letters by her but one from the Duke of Cumberland, of
an old date, from London, and about a privat affair. My other letters were
given to a sargent of mine, who, with Lieutenant Grant of Lord John Murray s
regiment and the other passangers, were taken by the people at Fraserburgh.
The sargent burnt mine when he found he eould uot save them. They report
that the Highlanders to between 3 aud 4000 were at Glasgow and Hamilton,
17-16.] JOUX, FOURTH EARL OF LOUDOUN. $5
ami in all probability are msruht to crose the head of Forth to join the people at
Perth, who arc moved south to meet them. The duke took Carlile this day
fortnight, and on Thursday was senight the first division of Lieutenant-General
Ilaules troopes were at Mussel brugh. He camp down with S old regiments of foot
and some dragoons, and there are GO00 Hessians ordered to Lieth. lly our last
accounts the transports were at AYilliamston, and they ready to embarque.
I return your lordship a thousant thanks for }'our presant, and beg you will
make my complements acceptable to my Lady Sutherland. I ever am, most
faithfully, my dear lord, your lordships most obedient and most humble servant,
Loudoun.
To the right honourable the Earl of Sutherland at Dunrobin.
96. (6.) The rebels march upon Inverness.
I nveruess^ February 7th, 174 J.
My Lord, — I think it my duty to acquaint your lordship with what intelligence
conies to me of consequance ; and I this day from different quarters have got
accounts that the rebells begun firing on Stirling Castle on Thursday the 30th of
last month, and continued all that day and part of the nixt ; that they lost a good
many men, and had the mussels of one of there 3 canon brock ; that on an
account of the Duke of Cumberlands being arived at Edinburgh on Thursday
with 7 battalions, or as some say, 7 thousant men, and the king's army being in
motion towards them, they abandoned the siege with presipitation, and crosed
.the Forth that night. The nixt night they lay at Drumond Castle, and on
Sunday at Lord John Drumonds above CricfT, from whence they detatched the
Mackintoshes, the Ferquarsons, Lord Lewis Gordons, and all the low country people
to Aberdeen. They call them 2000, and the rest they give out are to come the
Highland road to attack us hear. "We are making all the preparation we can to
give tliem a warm reseption in whatever shape they come. At presant I believe
they have not numbers to attack us after the great desartion they have had.
But as they come throw the country where many of the people are that left
them, they may meres ; but that will take time.
Now what I would beg of your lordship is that you would have your people
in readines to march to join the kings troopes and friends as soon as we have
arms to put in there hands. And since I begun this letter there are two ships
SG
STATE AXD OFFICIAL LETTERS. [1746.
appearing in the Firth, which I hope bring them. We are gitting all our friends
in ready lies. I beg your lordship would make my compliments acceptable to my
Lady Sutherland, and believe mc to be most faithfully, my dear lord, your lord-
ships most obedient humble servant, LOUDOUN.
To the right honourable the Earl of Sutherland.
97. (7.) The rebels take Inverness.
Dunskethness, February 20, 174§.
My Lord,— I had the honour of your lordships letter bear at diner, and now, as
soon as I have drunk your lordships health in a bumper, I sitt doun to answer
it. The reason I did not writ to your lordship from Kessack, after I had retired
from Inverness, was because there was no maner of danger; and I would have
remaind there, but that I found I could be of more use to the comon cause hear
thane there, and do not propose to retire any furder axcept nessesity oblige me, of
which at presant I see no maner of apperance. Your lordship will easyly believe
I had not much time for writting when 1 keept the one end of Inverness till the
rebells took possession of the other; and as I pased the toure with the last
of the tropes I past it under the fier of there canon.
I have orderd the man of war round from the road of Inverness with the
money and arms for your lordships people, who will be hear as soon as the wind
will permit. I will aquaint your lordship as soon as the ship arives, and shall
then expect that your lordship will than aquaint me when you will march into
this neighbourhood, that I may provide quarters for your people when they come
to receve there arms, for I have no way of sending them. I am, with great
esteem and respect, my lord, your lordships most obedient, humble servant,
Loudoun.
To the right honourable the Earl of Sutherland.
98. (8.) To order all the boats from Sutherland to the ferry near Tain.
Balnegowen, February 21th, 174 J.
My Lord,— This comes in the first place to inquer after your lordships health,
for as you have latly been out of order I cannot help being uneasy till I hear for
1746.] JOIIX, FOURTH EARL OF LOUDOUX. S7
fear, you should catch more coald by being out so late in the evening ; ami
iu the nexl place to beg that your lordship will be so good as order over
immediatly all the boats from Sutherland to the ferre near Tain, and put a
guard of your people over them : and to beg your lordship will euquier if the
people of Tain have, as they were desired, brought up the boats between them
and Tarbotness, and if 'tis not already done, that your lordship would be so good
as order it. I ever am, with great esteem and reguard, my lord, your lordships
most obedient humble servant, Loudoun.
To the right houourable the Earl of Sutherland at Tain.
99. (9.) The arrival of arms.
Ealnegowen, February 22d, 174 J.
My Lord, — I have the honour of your lordships of this morning. The boats
sertainly ought to be at the Mickle Ferre, but I see no use of crossing at presant.
The shipes are this morning arived at Cromarty, and I have sent orders to put
some of the arms on shore, aud I hope your lordship will be so good as to order
three hundered of your men to march down this day to the boat house to receve
them from my quartermaster. This is all I can do just now out of the small
number I have. As soon as I can I will endevour to put more into your lord-
ships peoples hands. I ever am, with great reguard, my lord, your lordships
most obedient humble servant, Loudoun.
To the right honourable the Earl of Sutherland.
22 February 1746. — Deliver to the bearer three hundred stand of arms. —
Sutherland.
.100. (10.) The forces about to leave Ealnagowan.
Balnegowan, February 2 2d, 174|.
My Lord, — I propose to march* from hance to-morrow morning at five a clock,
and to pass at the Meikle Ferry, for which reason I would have your lordship
have all your people past before we come up, that there may be no stope from
your people delaying in the morning, which might prove unlucke for the rear if
the enemy should advance quick. I expect to hear presantly in return to my
83 STATE AND OFFICIAL LETTERS. [1746.
last what number of boats there are that I may take my messurs accordingly, or
I shall sattel the quarters as soon as I come up for to-morrowes night, that we
may be so posted as to support one another. I ever am, most faithfully, my lord,
your lordships most obedient humble servant, Loudotjn.
To the right honourable the Earl of Sutherland at Tain.
101. (11.) To issue instructions for the defence of the passes on the Shin.
Dornich, February 24th, 174}.
My Lord, — I find this morning that part of the arms which should have been for
the men that were to have niarcht this day to the hight of the country with all
the amonition are by mistake caryed to Dunrobin, for which reason I have
delivered the ten chistes of arms I had hear to your officers, with a chist of
cart rages, that there may be no delay, and I must now beg that your lordship,
as you agreed last night, will give orders to that forth company at Golspe to
march immcdiatly to the passes on the Shin with their arms and amonition, that
we may have it defended past a possability of the enemyes forsing it, atjd that it
may appear on this, as it has done on all occasions, that your lordship has taken
arms for the publick service, and that every one of thein are imployed that way.
My complements to my lady. I ever am, my dear lord, your lordships most
obedient humble servant, Loudoun.
To the right honourable the Earl of Sutherland at Dunrobin.
102. (12.) About the four companies on the Shin.
Dornich, February 2Sth, I74|.
My Lord, — I met with Captain Gray hear last night, and showed him your
lordships letter, and he irnmediatly despatched an express to the four eompanyes
on the Shin with orders to march. I have mett since with Gavesane, and
aquaiuted him with your lordships orders, and he has agreed very readely to
deliver over as many men as he has, in order to eompleat the four eompanyes so
far ; and as they are now match [marched] 'tis impossible for the officers to
make them up. But if your lordship will be so good as order any of your people
to send them after us, I shall take care that they have credit for them accord-
ing as they join there eompanyes.
1746 ] JOIIX, FOURTH EARL OF LOUDQUX.
80
. I beg your lordship will be so good as make ray complements acceptable to
my Lady Sutherland, and my love to my wife, and my complements to the major.
I ever am, with great esteem and feguard, my lord, your lordships most obedient
humble servant, LOUDOUN.
To the rh'ht honourable the Earl of Sutherland at Dunrobin.
103. (13.) That the Duke of Cumberland and his army were on their way to
Inverness.
Dornoch, 10 March 17-46.
My Lord, — I was honourd with a letter from the Duke of Cumberland, dated at
Aberdeen the 7th instant, informing me that he woud be as this night at Bamf
with his army in his way to Inverness ; and as he has given no particular orders
I can onlie aquaint your lordship that his arraic consists of seventeen battalions
and four regiments of cavalry ; that there are three more regiments of foot fol-
lowing, aud all in top spirits. As I'm informd a body of the rebclls not verry
considerable are sooti to be at Tain, I must beg and insist that your lord-
ship woud order all the boats that are upon the Sutherland coast forthwith to
repair to the Mickle Feme, that so I may be able at once to transport a force
strong enough to put a check to their depredations ; and if any partie be requisite
to carry your orders into execution, I beg youll immediately let me know, and
they shall be forthwith sent. Please make offer of my compliments to my Lady
Sutherland, to my little wife, and to Major M'Kay. I am, with great esteem,
my lord, your lordships most obedient most humble servantt, Loudoun.
I ask pardon for using an other hand. I have had so much writting today
that I am almost blind.
To the right honourable the Earl of Sutherland.
10-4. (14.) Offering thanks for the boats ordered to the ferry.
Dornick, March 11th, 174£
My Lord, — I had this day the honour of your lordships along with Bain, whom
I have examined and keept prisoner. I have had several informations against
si
90 STATE AXD- OFFICIAL LETTERS. [174G.
him. I am very much obliged to your lordship for the boats you have ordered
to the ferry. They are absolutly nessesary for the publick service. If there are
any more of any sise beyond your lordships house I should be glade to have
them, as I have certain accounts that the rebells advansed last night as far as
Alnus. I must fall on methods to be provided with such a number of boats as
will transport a body at once as may be able to land in spite of them; and as soon
as I am master of those, I hope to make them very sick of there project on East
Iioss ; for they must ether abandon there scame of fighting the duke in Murray,
or they cannot spare men enough to deal with the troopes hear.
I beg your lordship will make my compliments acceptable to my Lady Suther-
land and the major, and give my love to my little wife, and tell her I beg she will
remember that a man that neglects his duty never yet was prised by the women,
and that when I went farder to see others the enemy were a hundered milles from
me, and now they are at my noss ready to take every advantage of my neglegence,
and layable to give me an opportunity of paying them my compliments. I am,
with great reguard and esteem, my lord, your lordships most obedient and
most humble servant, LoUDOUN.
To the right honourable the Earl of Sutherland at Dunrobin.
105. (15.) Giving warning of an intended surprise on the part of the enemy.
Dorniek, March loth, 17 -if.
My Lord,— As the weather has hitherto prevented the boats your lordship was
so good as to order for me to come to the Mickel Ferry, I find it nessesary to
give your lordship this trouble to aquaint you that I have certain intelligence
last night that Lord Cromarty has formed a scame to surprise them in the night
with a°party to be sent in some boats, which the man of war ordered round to
me from Cromarty, and have remained between that and Tarbatness. There are
but two or three of those boats at most; but if your lordships should fall into
there hands it will put them into a condission to be very troubelsom both to
your lordship and us. Therefore I beg no time may be lost in sending them
round to me, as 'tis of the outmost consequance for his Majestyes service.
I can give your lordship no certain accounts of the rebells numbers, as they
come to me so very different from different places, where I can have no suspition
1746.] JOHN, FOURTH EARL OF LOUDOUX. 01
of the intensions of the people who send the intelligence, they march and counter-
march so, and intermix there people to such a degree that 'tis very difficult to
count them. Bat I hope I have now falu on a method which will bring me a
certainty of there numbers. I shall cow take up no more of your lordships
time, but to beg that you will make my compliments to my Lady Sutherland,
and my dear unfaithfull wife, and to the major. I ever am, with great truth and
friendship, my lord, your lordships most obedient humble servant,
Loudoun.
To the right honourable the Earl of Sutherland at Dunrobin.
106. (16.) Regarding arms and ammunition to defend the house of the Earl of
Sutherland.
Dornieh, March 19th, 17 if.
My Lord, — I had yesterday the honour of a letter from your lordship, which
was delivered to me near Lairg, with a sight of some intelligence your lordship
had had from Caitness, which I think deserves particular attention, and I shall
have it in my thoughts, as soon as my hands are a littel loss, with your lordships
advise to put a stope to it. I expect, as soon as the wind will permit, a man of
war in the Firth, with whom I shall consult what can be done by them, and
aquaint Comodar Smith with the situation of that part of the country.
I have just now the honour of an other letter from your lordship, which
supprised me very much, in relation to arms and amonition to defend your house,
which your lordship sayss you have frequently applied for without success. I
dont know by what accident those letters have miscaryed; for I do declare,
from all those I have had the honour to receve I never understood the least
application of that sort, and that I might not be mistaken I have lookt them over
again just now. Your lordship indeed, in the first of yours of the 15th, mentions
armes wanted by the new company es, which I am ready to answer now, as I
yesterday took there numbers, and the demand will be very small, as till now I
alwayes reconed on those arms you aquainted me you had taken from the
desarters. But as for the defence of your own house, my lord, till now I never
knew your lordship wanted ; and as soon as you will aquaint me with what
number of armes and what quantity of amonition will be sufficient for your lord-
ships use (but that particular demand is nessesary for my voitcher and justifiea-
02 STATU AXD OFFICIAL LETTERS. [1745.
sion for disposing of his Majestyes stores put into my hands) ; and I do assure
your lordship I will with pleasure do all my powers will allow me ; and now must
beg that your lordship will make my compliments acceptable to my Lady Suther-
land, and the young lady and the major, and that your lordship will believe me
to be, with great esteem and reguard, my lord, your lordships most obedient
humble servant, LOUDOUN.
107. The Presbytery of Dornoch to William, sixteenth Earl of Suther-
land, stating their satisfaction with his steady adherence to the Pro-
testant cause. [Copy.]
Golspie, November 14, 1745.
My Lord, At our last meeting wee appointed a committee of our number to
wait of your lordship, and in our name to testifie our satisfaction with, and to
make our hearty gratefull acknowledgments for, your lordships early appearance
in favour of our happy constitution and government, and against the present
unnatural and wicked rebellion calculated to subvert both. And as your lordship
still continues your laudable and vigorous diligence for these good purposes, and
have since our former meeting sent a good number of your countrymen (the
fittest for that service) to be employ' d in the publick service, we judge it our
duty to make this repeated acknowledgment of our satisfaction with your lord-
ships conduct. Wo are, my lord, extreamly well pleas'd to see your lordships
hitherto known steady adherence to the Protestant and Revolution interest con-
tinued and further testified in a time of danger, and your noble family shining,
and like to shine still, as it has always done, for its fidelity to that interest.
That it may ever shine that way, that your lordship's appearance and that of all
the friends of the government in defence of it may be crown'd with speedy and
glorious success, that our lawfull and rightful! sovereign, King George, may long
live a blessing to these nations, that God may establish the throne in his royal
house, and that the present unnatural rebellion against his person and govern-
ment be soon and happily suppress'd, and the hopes of a popish pretender and
his adherents extinguished, is the constant and earnest prayer of the presbytery
of Dornoch.
This, in name and by appointment of said presbytery, is signified and sub-
scribed by your lordships most obedient and most humble servant,
(Sign'd) Rose, modr.
1745.] WILLIAM, SIXTEENTH EARL OF SUTHERLAND, 93
108. William Mackay, Inverness, to William, sixteenth Earl of Suther-
land, — capture of Simon, Lord Lovat, 12th December 1745.
My Lord, — I had the honour of your lordships letter with MTherson, the
deserter, when I was at the head of my platoun, beginiug our march to Fort
Augustus, so for my life cou'd not be in my duty so fair as to make your lordship
a return. The historic of our march to Fort Augustus your lordship has from
Major M'Kay. Tuesday last Lord Loudon marched with your lordship's two
company's, two of Seaforts, Grants, Culcairns, Lord Iieays, and 100 of his own
regiment, to Castle Dunie, where we arrived betwixt 3 and 4 in the afternoon.
The Lyon (who was in our company) and Culcairn went in to capitulate with
Lovatt, and upon telling Loudon's resolutions, he assuir'd them under the strongest
ties of honour that be 10 o' cloak next day he would peaceablie surrender himself
to Loudon, and cause all his people come in with their amies and deliver them
also, upon which we all gott billetts upon the tennents of the neighbourhood.
But in the glooming the master of Lovatt appeared to us with 120 men, as we
than judged, at a disstance, which served us all for sleep and beds that night.
Next morning we all couveened, and depended so fan* upon Lovatt's promise that
we all thought there was no stop. But, as we was marching by the house, the
Lyon and Cidcairn came out and told Loudon that Lovatt was not that day in
good hea[l]th, and consequently could not march. Lord Loudon returned them,
with a message that he cou'd accept of no appoliges ; but in the event he wou'd
not come out immediatly he wou'd use all his force to oblige him. Upon which
we all formed in a clap about the house, and a couple of cowhorns leavelled to
the broadside of it. Upon which Lovatt beged a commoning with Loudon, and
only insissted for three days to settle his affairs, and desired Lord Loudon to leave
a detachment of his troops with him, to enable him to force his people to lay
down their arms, because they' were all past his management. Lord Loudon
replyed that he hoped to dispose of his Majisties troops to better purpose, and
that, as he very well understood he had his people under as good management
as any, he first wou'd carrie him, and afterwards consider h'ow to manage the
people in the event they woud give any trouble for the future. Lovatt still
insissted to be left, tho' but for one day. Att last Loudon told him to pack
immediatly, otherways he woud beginn the work, for that he did not choose to
94 STATE AXD OFFICIAL LETTERS. [1745.
loose any mans neck out of the heltar att the expence of his own. Att last the
coach was desired to he ready. But the servantts was as leasie as the master,
till Lord Loudon was obliged to call for one of his serjeantts to yoak the horses,
and his lordship stood by and saw the thing done. At last the old d 1 was
tackled out, and we cleverlie drove him before us to this place. I am sure your
lordship will have this detaile from severalls. I have no other newes, but what
I am sure the last post carried your lordship, so shall presume no further, only to
acquaintt your lordship that all your men are very well, except a few of them
that has colds, and Lord Loudon told us that he never saw troops so young
form so quick and so orderly. I yett presume to make so bold as to offer my
most humble duty to my Lady Sutherland, your lordship, and dear Lady Betty,
and I ever am, with gratitude and much esteem, my lord, your lordships most
f.iithfull and obedientt servantt, "William Mackay.
Inverness, 12 December 1745.
To the ri^ht honourable the Earl of Sutherland att Dunrobine.
109. Andrew Fletcher of Milton, Lord Justice-Clerk, to William, six-
teenth Earl of Sutherland, — the King's commands to assist the
Duke of Cumberland.
Edinburgh, 8th March 1746.
My Lord, — The army of the rebells being now in the northern parts of this
.country, and His lioyal Highness the Duke of Cumberland being on his march
to disperse them, I have the honour of his Majestys commands signifyed to me by '
His Grace the Duke of Newcastle, one of the principal secretaries of state, to
acquaint your lordship that it is his Majes.tys pleasure that your lordship and all
other civil officers assist his Royal Highness in the best manner that may be in
your power; and his Majesty has commanded me to transmit accounts of the
behaviour of the several civil officers in this respect.
These offices were not created to be of use only in times of pea.ee ; they were
intended for the support of the goverment in times of war also, and you cannot
but forsee what pernicious consequences a failzure of duty in matters of this
importance may produce ; and therefore it seems unnecessary that I shou'd warn
you of the danger of every officer who shall be guilty of the smallest neglect
1746.] LORD JUSTICE-CLERK FLETCHER. 95
where so much may depend upon an exact performance of his duty. But as you
know It 13 the indispensable duty of your office, so I cannot doubt that it is no
less your lordships inclination, as a loyall subject of his Majesty and a sincere
friend of our present happy constitution, to give chearfull and ready obedience to
so just and necessary a command.
I need not mention to your lordship the particulars wherein you may be
assisting to his royal highness. It is sufficient in the gencrall to tell you that
you ought, in your station, to do all that is in your lordships power for accom-
modating and supplying tiro army in everything necessary, and for distressing and
weak'ning the rebells; and your lordship ought also to send to or bring his royall
highness, or the proper officers commanding under him, the earliest and best
intelligence that you can procure of the rebells, their numbers, their motions or
designs ; and for that end you ought to use your outmost diligence to procure
such intelligence.
Your lordship must likeways, with all dispatch, communicate these his
Majestys commands to the several baillies of regality, magistrates of brughs, and
justices of peace within your shire, at least to such of them as have continued
in their duty and loyalty to his Majesty, and tnmsmitt to them copies of this
letter, and your lordship is to send me, from time to time, accounts of your pro-
ceedings in pursuance of these orders, and give notice to these other civil officers
within your shires that they, in like manner, send me accounts of their proceed-
ings that I may be thereby enabled, in obedience to his Majesty's commands, to
transmitt accounts of the behaviour of the several civil officers. And it must be
a satisfaction to all such as shall faithfully perform their duty to know, that full
accounts of their conduct will be laid before his Majesty.— I am, my lord, your
lordships most obedient humble servant, And. Fletcher.
Indorsed : " Letter, Lord Justice-Clerk to Lord Sutherland. 8 March 174G."
110. Hugh Monro to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, — narrating
the doings of the rebels at Dunrobin. 27th March 1746.
My Lord, — In less as half an houre after your lordship took boat, the rebells,
300 of them, came to Dunrobine that night. Some of them came to the place in
less as half an houre where your lordship took boat, commanded by M'Donald of
Clanronald. They were that night in your lordships castle and the tennents
96 STATE AXE OFFICIAL LETTERS. [1746.
houses therabouts. I had 40 of them under command of two officers. My wife
intertaiued them, but my brother and I went to the hills. Xixt morning the
rebells went back to Dornoch, they being alarm'd that Lord LauJon were to
attaet them. They took away all your lordships ryding horses and Sir Harry
Innesses, only my Lady Sutherlands Irish Galloway, and at there commanders
sight, put into the house of Dunrobine to prevent there rabbles taking him away.
They entered all the rooms in the castle, took away all the arms and amonition
there, and the arms your lordship gote from the government, tho put under
ground; they instantly, upon their arrivall, went to the very place as if themselves
had put the arms, etc., there. The rabble took out of Dunrobine only small
things from the servants there, which, uixt day, the Duke of Pearth ordered to be
left at Ferryoon's till his furder orders. One of their officers had a durk to my
Lady Sutherlands brest, to get account where your lordship was, and arms, to
which he gote noe satisfactory answer. Some other officer, seeing the durk
drawen as above, with his hand pushed it by my ladys brest, the edge toutched
her skin as if done by a small pin, not in the least the worst of it; and tho her
ladyship prepared all good intertainmeut for them, they made a stable of your
dyning-room, stole oue of the silver snuffers, but took none more of the pleat
away. My brother and I, by accident, gote a boat Sunday last, and forced to
land in Helmsdale, and Mnnday night gote aboard Captain Fawckners sloop of
warr then oppossite to Spye. Xixt day the Hound sloop of warr came there,
who gave oiders to Captain Fawekner to goe to the Firth of Forth. My
brother went with him to get his ship at liberty by the letter lie gote from Lord
Laudon to the duke's secretary, and I came aboard this sloop, commanded by
Captain Dove, who gives a full information, and sent by the bearer, Mr. Tolmie,
who instantly returns to the duke with all the information could be had since
I came aboard to this minute, that severall gentlemen are come aboard ; and I was
to be lauded with it by one of the sloops of warr this night, or to-morrow, be-
south Spye, had not Mr. Tolmie, by meer accident, com'd aboard this sloop of
warr, as she entered Cromarty Road, be eight this morning. If any intelligence
of consequence, I will be the nixt to land after the bearer to give your lordship
for the gouerments service, to inform the duke of it. Lord Cromarty and
Barisdale went last Munday to ryse all Caithiness.
This sloop of warr came up here about ten this morning, being informed that
the rebells were crossing here, etc., and this day all the gentlemen in Ross shyre
1746.] WILLIAM, SIXTEENTH EARL OF SUTHERLAND. 97
wore commanded to attend at Tayne, to pay .£5 sterling out of every £100 Scots
of valuation, besides ee^s, crown rent, and bishop rents. This shyre and your
lordships country is ruined. I most remain here if I get noe commands to goe to
land safely for the gouerment's service, which I am here ready to doe for that
purpose on a minutes warning. May God send the Duke of Cumberland and his
army, your lordship, forward with great success to relive us from these hellish
enemys of our happy constitution. The captain here salute your lordship, as
does, with great submission, my lord, your lordships most obliged, most faithful,
humble servant, while Hugh Monro.
Invergordonness, aboard the
Hound sloop of warr, 27th March 174C.
111. Captain Thomas Dove to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland,
— stating that the Rebels are in possession of the Earl's house.
Hound Sloop, Cromertie Bay, 27th March 1746.
My Lord, — I take the liberty to acquaint your lordship that the 20th past
M'Donall of Claurouald, with 300 men, took possession of your lordships house,
and the ships at Ferry Oven. They took all your lordships horses except your
ladys. They put a durk to her ladyships breast, which scratch't her breast
by one of them shuffing the rebells hand away. They have not touch't your
lordships plate nor anything else, but some trides which were stopt at Ferry Oven
by the Duke of Ferths orders. I have not time to write any news, having dis-
patcht au express to Sir Everard Fawkener, who, I suppose, will inform your
lordship of the news. — I am, my lord, with great truth, your lordships most
obedient humble servant, Tho. Dove.
To the right honourable the Earl of Sutherland.
112. Mr. Andrew Monro to "Willi am, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, —
relating the actions of the Rebels in Sutherland. Edinburgh, 29th March
174G.
My Lord, — I was very glade to hear that your lordship arived safely in Aber-
deen. I stayed in Sutherland till the 2 4 current, that was four dayes after
your lordship did sett out from Dnnrobin. I gote a Muray boat that laye at
N
98
STATE AXD OFFICIAL LETTERS.
[1740.
Brora, and with much diSculty I gote on hoard the Vulture sloop, and arived
here yesterday. The moment that I fame to this place I waited of my Lord
Justice Clerk, and give his luulship a full account as far as it was consistent with
iuy knowledge of the transactions of the rebells in Sutherland. Two hours after
your lordship did sett out Clanronald came to Dunrobin with about 300 or 400
men. There was 200 of them that night in the Castle of Dunrobin. They
found out all the arms aud amunition that your lordship caused burio. The
next day they were all orderd to Doruoch, and the whole of them that landed in
Sutherland eomanded by the Duke of Perth aud Lord Crornertie, marehd towards
the passes on aue alarm that they were to be atackd by Lord Loudon. I seed
Captains Gordon of Carell and Clunes, and they told me that they had orders
from Lord Loudon to march northwards, and to take care of the kings arms, and
I can assure your lordship that every man of your militia are gone home to their
houses, and I believe so are the Muekays, for as the rebclls are in possession of
all Sutherland, they eou'd not subsist in a body f*r want of provision. Lord
Loudon marehd to the west with the company s he had with him, and, I was told,
had cross'd the passes into Lord Seaforths country, if not the Isle of Skye. I
mention what I was told.
On Sunday the 23 Barislill came to Dunrobin. I spoke with scveralls who
seed him, and informed me that he had 500 men with him and was to march to
Caithness, where he expected to be joined by severals in that eountrey, and by
Sir James Stuart of Buray from Orkney.
The rebells on their march to Dunrobin took the four ships at Feryoons,
and sent out of Captain Ingliss ship all the arms, amunition, etc., in 15 boates
to Tain. Hapiely the money was savd, for Captain Inglis went off with it in a
boat, and Provost Fraser, Provost Hossack, and Baillie James Fraser alongs. But
3 or 4 casque of half-pence were left on board, which might be in value
about £70. The[y] earied away all your lordships riding-horses. They also
caried of the arms and amunition that was buried, and the blunderbussus that
were in the dining-roome.
I am come here in order to get my ship releas'd, which I have not gote done
yet. I have aplyd to my Lord Justice Clerk, and I am to petition the Comis-
sioners. But it so it was that the ship was disabled at sea with bad weather, and
the captain of the man-of-warr took out all the crew except the skiper and made,
and did put some of his own crew on board, and one of his own Livtenants aud
'.!.;, r>
,7 ;o.] WILLIAM, SIXTEENTH EARL OF SUTHERLAND. f 9
t .j..ht of his crew No law can hinder my getting the ship and eargoe, as by
cinrtfMiaitie the sLip was bound for Xoroway. Yet the captain of the mun-of
warr because he kncwes no betor, woud insist that liel make prize of her. Sun
I am what 1 lwve in that ship wou'd be serviceable to the dukes army. 1 wou'd
not give the captain of the man-of-war not a groat for his pretensions.— I am,
withmuch esteem, my lord, your lordships obedient servant,
Andrew Monro.
If your lordship hase any comands for me here send it per bearer.
Edinburgh, 29th March 174 6.
113. Hcgh Monro to William, sixteenth Earl qv Sutherland,—
Destruction of the country by the Iiebels. 2d April 174G.
My Loud —My last to your lordship from aboard the Hound sloop of warr, by
Mr Tohnie I came here this day in order to waite of you at Aberdeen, but I
cannot *et horses to hyre; so sends this express to accquent your lordship that
your country is totally ruined. The enemys have called all the orm's in your
country what they had from the goverment, if not, they are to burn and destroy
all the eountry 'twixt Ross and Sutherland ; the rebells are 'twist two and three
thousand, and are doeing all the harme in their power. Carroll and Bailhe Kenneth
Sutherland are aboard Captain Midletown. I waitehere to have your lordships
orders to goe forward or to return aboard any of the sloops of warr, with any
orders to them ; for I am fully determined not to go home till I see your lord-
ship. 1 am informed that a thousand men from Caithness have joyned tho
Pretender. If I can be bold to say that if Dukes army went forward, there are
five thousand of them now be north Inverness, and the easier for his army to
cross Spye. ,
Lord Laudon is eertainly gone to Ardgyleshyre with the Preeedent, and
M'Leod, etc., in all abont eight hunder men.
What were taken of Lord Laudon's men intyrely there own faults, but more
of this hereafter; and so concludes with all due respect and sincere regaurd.—
I am to remain, my lord, your lordships most oblidged most obedient humble
, ,., Hugh Monro.
servant, while
Monwhither, 2d April 1746.
I give this express two shillings sterling.
100 STATU AXD OFFICIAL LETTERS. [174G.
ll-i. Sin Evkfj vp.d Fawkfner to William, sixteenth E.vrl of Sutherland,
about discoveries made iirtlie correspondence of a certain person.
Spavmouth, the 12 April 1740, 8 in the evening.
My LORD,— His royal highness has commanded me to acquaint your lord-
ship that he would have auswerd your letter himself, hut that he is busy ; and,
with regard to the person in question, there have been discoveries made iu his
correspondence] which it is necessary to have eleard up by all the enquiry's that
can be made.
I am, my lord, your most obedient humble servant,
EVERARD FaWKENER.
115. "Warrant by William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, to John Gun
of Braemow, and Dugald Gilchrist, factor to the Earl, to make investi-
gation regarding arms and effects belonging to George, third Earl of
Cromartie, and the proceedings followiug thereon.
Dunrobin, 21 Aprile 1746.
Being informed that there are effects belonging to the rebells lodged within
this house, these are impowering vow to make a narrow search and swear for the
same of whatever kind to be secured in jour hands till our return, which is your
warrand from your friend and SUTHERLAND.
To John Gun of Braemow and Dugald Gilchrist, our factor.
Queries :
Whether any money, arms, or other effects belonging to Lord Cromarty, or
those in his companie, or any oth^r of the rebells, is lodged with or in her keep-
ing ; or if they had any, and how disposed oil'; or whether they know of any-
such lodged. iu the hands of any others in this country; or have any suspicions
that there is.
Dunrobin, 24th Aprill 1746.
In presence of Hugh Gordon of Carroll, sherriff-depute of the shire of Suther-
land, compeared Mrs. Barbara Sutherland, who being solemnly sworn and
interrogate whether any money, arms, or other effects belonging to lord or ser-
vants, or any other of the rebells, were lodged with her or in her keeping, or if
17 4C] WILLIAM, SIXTEENTH EARL OF SUTHERLAND. 101
she had any such and how disposed off, or whether she knows of any such lodgd
in tW. bands of any other in this country, or has any suspicion that there is;
depones negatively, only heard the money and some arms were lodged with the
Countess of Sutherland. Barbara Sutherland.
Hugh Gordon.
Mrs. Butler, being sworn and interrogate as above, depones cum precedente
in omnibus. Saraii Buttler.
Hugh Gordon.
Mrs. Dott, being sworn and interrogate as above, depones negatively that she
[has] no money, arms, or other effects belonging to the rebells in her keeping. That
she had a silver-Lilted broad sword which she got from the Countess and deliverd
to my Lord Sutherland. That she got a pistoll from George M'Kenzie, Lord
Cromartie's servant, which she delivered to William Murray. That she also got
from the Countess a silver watch and a guinea, which she delivered to the
owner. Lord Cromartie's servant, and further depones that she heard the Countess
own that she had a five hundred pound which she believes was not delivered up,
and suspects that there is some money and arms still in her ladyship's custody,
but is not certain. Causa scientiae patet. Jannet Dott.
Hugh Gordon.
Mrs. Jean Sutherland, being called upon, refuses to swear.
Hugh Gordon.
Anne Fraser, being solemnly sworn and interrogate as above, depones nega-
tively, and this is truth as she shall answer to God, and depones she cannot write.
Hugh Gordon.
Christian Mackay, being sworn and interrogate as above, depones negatively,
and that she cannot write. Hugh Gordon.
Margaret Bellie, being sworn and interrogate as above, depones that she has
nothing in her custody except some cloaths, which she was desired by John
M'Kay, ensign, to keep. Margaret Bellie.
Hugh Gordon.
10 2 STATE A XV OFFICIAL LETTERS. [17 4 6.
Antie Grant, being sworn and interrogate as above, depones negative, only
that slit; j;uu the luck oi a ytiu from John Sutherland, b re war, to keep, which she
afterwards delivered to him, and saw a pi&toll with a boy, "Willie More, which he
has in keeping, and cannot write. Hugh Gordon.
Anne Dawson, being sworn and interrogate, depones negatively, only that
she saw a day or two after the engagement at Golspy one or two pistolls and a
gun under Adam Black's bed iu the lodge, and a pistoll with John Lamb, on
whieh the pretended Prince's name was engraven, which is truth, and depones
she cannot write. Hugh Gordon.
Robert Collie, being sworn and interrogate as above, depones negatively.
Robert Collie.
Hugh Gordon.
William Ross, being sworn and interrogate as above, depones negatively, only
that he has a broad sword which he got from John M'Culloch, which is truth,
and depones he cannot write; further depones that Arthur Ross, eunniger, had
two guns. Hugh Gordon.
Adam Black, being sworn and interrogate as above, depones that he got one
of Lord Lowdon's fusees from Danicll Watson at Morvich, for which he paid
three shillings, and got two holsters with a broad sword from Lord M'Leod's
servant, and has a powder horn and two targes, which is all he has or knows off.
Adam Sutherland.
Hugh Gordon.
116. Alexander Brodie of Brodie, Lyon King of Arms, to William, six-
teenth Earl of Sutherland, — asking him to protect the Countess of
Cromartie's house and family.
Inverness, Aprile 21st, 1746.
My DEAR Lord, — As you march thro' Ross I hope your humanity will induce
your lordship not to show any revenge to my Lady Cromartys house or family,
since we should show the world we act upon different principles with rebells.
Besides, if the estate is to be forfeited, the forfeiture will be more valuable that
1746.] WILLIAM, SIXTEEN Til EARL OF SUTHERLAND. 103
the house is not plunderd. You may recollect some thing that I said to you on
this subject before, -which I hope will convince you of the sincerity of my
meaning, and in the meantime an innocent lady and family protected for some
time, tho' the familys ruin seems to be inevitable. I am, my dear lord, yours
faithfully, Alexr. L rod ie.
To the right honourable the Earl of Sutherland at Dunrobin.
117. William Mackay to "William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, —
stating that two French men of war have landed money and arms on the
west coast, etc.
Inverness, 14th May 174G.
My Lord, —I came here this morning from Fort Augustus with two prisoners,
tho one a brother of Glenmoristown's, and the other a sergeant fc of Lord John
Drumond's regimentt, who was formerly a corporall in Lord Loudouns company
of guards, and deserted from it to the French service. This fellow Sunday last,
perceiving ane express disspatehed of from the rebells with three great packetts
pursued him, knocked him down, carried away his disspatches, and came directly
to Lord Loudoun att Fort Augustus yesterday's morning, which packetts I
delivered this day to the duke. For whom they were directed I doe not know,
as I hade the charge of them and the prisoners. I askefc him no questions
thereanent, because that, in the event of any disscoveries, I cannot be suspected.
He was personally present when two French men of warr' landed ou the west
coast and put a shoar 30,000 luiedors and 7000 stand of amies ; the boxes with
the gold and the armes he actualy saw with his eyes, and recived some of
the coin which I saw with him. They have 2000 men yett together, and is very
fast getting more. This body they have within 16 miles of Fort Augustus, in
Glenarkaik, a place unaccessable almost for any troops, especially for the
regular. Lord John Drumond and his brother, the Duke of Perth, have
embarked on board of these ships for France, and as they sett out they
were attacked by two of our ships of warr, who drove them back to the harbour,
killed aboutt 50 of their men, and damaged their ships much. However, they
could not come to the harbour, because such a body of the rebells were upon the
shoar. Unlucklie they gott sarly out since, and its thought that the above
gentlemen went as imbassadores for men to the French king. I deliverd my
104
STATE AXD OFFICIAL LETTERS. [174G.
commands betwixt eight unci nine this morninp, was keept waiting his royall
heighnes's commands for Lord Loudoun untill after twelve, and than desired
to attend again at four iu the afternoon, which gives me grounds to belive these
paeketts have made some disscoveries worth their notice, the nature of which I
have no reason to exspect to understand so soon. But it is the gencrall opinion
the rebells will give a good dale of trouble yet. I have nothing else worth your
lordship's notice. I wish this 3G,000 luidores were betwixt Dunrobin and the
Little Feme, if there was no more than the 2000 to escort it. This town is so
throng that it is with difficulty I eou'd gett room to write your lordship this
undisstinet letter. I humblie beg your lordship may pardon me for it, and I am,
with crrcat regard and esteem, my lord, your lordship's most faithfull humble
servant!, WlLLIA * MaCKAY '
IIS. Sin Everard Fawkener to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland,
—as to the Duke of Cumberland and the Earl's going to England.
Inverness, the IGth May 174G.
My Lord,— I have had the honor of your lordships remembrance by your two
letters of the Sth and 13th, and I have his royal highness's commands to acknow-
ledge that to his royal highness, who has been pleased to command me to assure
you that no suggestions or representations to your lordships prejudice have come
to his knowledge, or would have the least effect if any body should have the
rashness to make them, as your lordships conduct has all along been a most
irreproachable testimony of the firm attachment of your lordship to his Majesty s
person and government, and of your zeal for the religion and liberty's of
your country.
His royal highness is very much concern'd to hear of your lordships indisposi-
tion, and will be°always pleas'd to be any ways instrumental towards the removal
of it, to which end he will very rcadyly consent to your removal to England.
But as things are not yet so well composed in this country as his royal highness
thinks they soon will be, he hopes it will not be prejudicial to your health,
especially as the season is now so favorable, to put off your removal from this
country for a little time; and when it is to be, his royal highness will endeavour
to accommodate your lordship as to your passage by sea.
His royal highness doubts not but your lordship will continue your
I74C] WILLIAM, SIXTEENTH EAEL OF SUTHERLAND. 105
accustomed diligence to Jefeut and disappoint all the designs and attempts of the
ichel-s and th-sir abettors, and to preserve the peace and tranquility of the
country. His royal highness likewise thanks you for the papers you have
sent him.
I shall not trouble jour lordship further than to assure you of my unalterable
respect, and that I most truly am, my lord, your most obedient humble servant,
EVERARD FAWKEXER.
To the right honourable the Earl of Sutherland at Duurubbiu Castle.
119. John Huske, afterwards Lieutenant-General, to William, sixteenth Eael
of Sutherland, — with the thanks of the Duke of Cumberland for his
present to the army.
Inverness, May the lGth, 174G.
My Lord, — I have his royal highnesses commands to thank your lordship for
your generous present of 200 guineas to the army, which he has disposed of
yesterday in puhlick orders, from your lordship to the soldiers.
I likewise acquainted his royal highness of your request about arms, which at
present he could not give any answer about. — I am, my lord, with the greatest
respect, your lordships most obedient and most humble servant,
John Huske.
To the right honourable the Earl of Sutherland.
120. John Frigge to "William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, — regarding
the rebels and their country.
Inverness, lGth May 1746.
Right Honourable, — Haveing the oportunity of the bearer, Mr. Anderson, shall
give you the dayes newes. Last week, Lovat, Lochell, etc., met, when Lovat
was declared generalising, but thers not above 50 men with them, tho they can
bring 2 or 300 in 4 hours together. The Pretender, Duke of Pearth, Lord
George Murray, and Lord Elcho, are imbarked for France in the two men of war.
12 rebels sailed from Lorrowstoness Sunday after the batle for Holland. I seed
Ardoch this morning from Fort Augustus; about GO of Glengeries people sur-
rendered their arms and themselves set at liberty. A great maney more were to
o
10G .STATE AXD OFFICIAL LETTERS. [174G.
surrender this day, kit as their is an express from the duke to Loudouu with new
iusliik'tiuiu, cant tdl whither Ihry are to pairt with the men hereafter or not.
2C0 men went out to distroy tlie Aiid, etc., yeasterday, and 3 regiments goes this
day to Stratherriek to distruy every house, etc, their, and this is to he the fate
of all the rebell.s country. Bemesdales house is burned. 700 stand arms and 30
cask pouder, H000 lb. shott taken. You see now how miserable these wretches
most be soon.
As I'm pinched for money beyond expression I begg your lordship will order
me payment of £55 bill on John Mackays accountt, as I'll be here sometime. I
begg your lordship will remember me now that you have the money of the rebels
in your custody, of which John Mackay most have a good share. I'll expect your
lorcUhips answer in course. The Lyon and Grant are gon for London. Major
Grants sentence will be known this day; its said it will be severe. I make offer of
my compliments to you, Lady Sutherland, and Lady Betty, and am, right honour-
able, your lordships most obedient humble servant, JOHN FRIGGE.
To the right honourable the Earle of Sutherland at Dunrobine.
121. David Bruce to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland,— stating that
the Earl's generosity was ordered to be mentioned in public orders.
Inverness, 17th May 1746.
My Lord, The bearer, Mr. Anderson, deli\ered your present to the dukes
army of £'200 guineas, which General Husk reported to the duke, and immediately
he ordered it to be given out in publiek orders your lordships generosity.
I doe assure your lordship I would not have taken upon me to have men-
tioned it to Mr. Anderson if I had not thought it a right and laudable thing, and
what your lordship will never miss.
If there is anything in my way wherein I can be of use to your lordship you
may freely command me.
Mr. Anderson has only gott his dispatches just now. — I am, my lord, your
lordships most obedient and most humble servant, David Bruce.
General Husk drunk your health yesterday at dinner, and applauds your
generosity much.
I return your lordship many thanks for your compliment.
To the right honourable my Lord Sutherland att Dunrobin.
17 19.] LORD CHANCELLOR 1IARDWICKE. 107
12 2: Lord Chancellor Haedwicke to William, sixteenth Kvrl of Suther-
land, to attend the trial of the Earl of Kilniarnoek and others.
House of Lords, 30th June 1746.
My Lord, — I am commanded by the House of Lords to acquaint your lordship
that they have appointed William, Earl of Kilmarnock, to be tryed on Monday,
the twenty-eighth day of July next, at nine of the clock in the morning, upon the
bill of indictment for high treason found against him; and George, Earl of
Cromertie, to be tryed on the same day, at ten of the eloek in the forenoon, upon
the bill of indictment for high treason found against him ; and Arthur, Lord
Ilahnerino, to be tryed on the same day, at eleven of the clock in the forenoon,
upon the bill of indictment for high treason found against him ; aud that your
lordship's appearance aud attendance at the said trials is requir'd upon pain of
incurring the utmost displeasure of the house; and that in ease your lordship
shall be incapable of attending by reason of sickness or other disability you are
to send two witnesses to attest the same upon oath ; and I am also directed to
acquaint your lordship that the lords are summoned pursuant to an Act of the
7th and 8th year of King William the Third, intitled an Aet for regulating
Trials in Cases of Treason and Misprision of Treason. — I am, my lord, your
lordship's bumble servant, Hard wicke C.
123. Sir Everard Fawkener to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland,
— stating that the Earl's letter will be shown to the Duke of Cumberland.
London, the 27th June 17-49.
My LORD, — I have the honor of your lordships letter, which I shall lay before
his royal highness the duke as soon as he eomes to town.
As I remember when the report General Elaud and I drew up in vertue of his
royal higlmess's commands was deliver'd to your lordship, all the aeeounts were
likewise retnrnd to your lordship, or put into General St. Claire's hands, so that no
determination could be given or be expeeted from him upon that subject. For
the rest, whenever his [royal highness] may think fit to let me know when it may
be convenient for him to see your lordship, I shall immediately give you notice of
it.— I am, with great truth and respect, my lord, your most obedient, humble
servant EVERARD FAWKENER.
The Earl of Sutherland.
10S ST A
TE AXD OFFICIAL LETTERS. [1793.
124. Elizabeth, Countess of Sohekland, to John Fuaser, Esq., Dunrobin,
regarding volunteer commissions.
London, January fifteen, 1795.
Hoover the .arrangements maybe made so as to get the : men «»»^ /» ^
EKin I shall be satisfied. I think the arrangement mentioned u, jour letter a
™od one. With respect to the officers, we approve perfect yo your son
, n^enL As to ITutton's, the gardioer's son, I certainly cannot forb.d h»n to
a ^commission, but as he cannot he allowed to take men from us you had
better l answer to him, tell him from nre that I cannot ad use h.m to do .t
H naing such an ensigncy a very had thing for a young man in £ circum ,, „
1. yon .ill nnderLnd that I «*££*» *« * ~ « ~ ^
as many men as can be spared.— Adieu, jours, etc.,
Lord Gower says Mr. Boog ought to be allowed the timber, taking proper
care that he does not exceed the bounds of necessity. .
Von may explain to Hntton that I by no means forlid his taking the coinnns.
sion, only that I cannot assist him in it.
John Fraser, Esq., Dunrobin Castle, Dornoch, KB.
1*5 Geokge Ghaktille, Eabl Gown, hnsband of Elizabeth, Countess of
SraiERLAXD, to JOHN Fraser, Esq., regarding an offer to ra.se a corps
of volunteers for the defence of Strathnaver.
Wimbledon, October 13th, 1706.
DE« SIR.-I have received a letter from the Duke of Portland informing me
fha he U commanded by his Majesty to acquaint mc that his Majesty » now
Id o alept the offe", which was made in the beginning of tins yea, from
leof the inhabitants of Strathnaver to raise a corps of volunteers for the
1700.] EL1ZABETU, COUXTESS OF SUTHERLAND. 100
defence of that district. As I have not at present about me Mr. Gordon's letter
to me. upon that suljcci, I wish you to wiite to Mm, for I have forgot his direc-
tion, in order that he may know that he may again come forward with his
proposals.— I am, dear sir, yours sineerely, Gower Sutherland.
John Fraser, Esq., Dunrobin Castle, Dornoch, N.B.
Answer to the foregoing.
Dunrobin Castle, 22 Oetober 179G.
My Lord, — By last post I had the honor of your lordship's letter of the 13th.
1 yesterday wrote Captain William Gordon of Strathnaver, and when I get his
answer shall lose no time in forwarding it to your lordship. Meantime I know
he is ready to raise his company on the shortest notice, on the same terms
in every respect on which the other Sutherland volunteer companies have been
raised. I only mention this in case your lordship may see a propriety in
applying for a letter of service to raise the company without waiting his answer.
His designation is W. Gordon of Clerkhill, Esq.
In the event it may be the wish of his Majesty to make an addition to the
volunteers in North Britain, and that your lordship and Lady Sutherland may
see a propriety in making an offer to government, Tin sure I could either raise
another company in this neighbourhood on the shortest notice, or complete the
Golspy and Dornoch eompanys to 100 men each, as might be thought most
adviseuble. I have the honor to be, most respectfully, my lord, your lordship's,
tic, etc., J - F -
126. Elizabeth, Countess of Sutherland, to [John Fraser, Esq.],— about
the Skibo and Dunrobin volunteers.
Petersham, August the 30th, 1799.
Dear Sir,— Lord Gower received this morning a letter from Major Maeulloch,
which he desires rae to enclose to you. He has no doubt of the propriety of the
recommendations mentioned in it. But from the manner of their being stated,
he cannot send them to the Duke of Portland, the companies being named
Skibo and Dunrobin companies, by which names they certainly were not gazetted,
and therefore cannot be known at the office. When such recommendations are
sent by the eommanding officers they ought to be put in a regular list, first the
110 STATE A XD OFFICIAL LETTERS. [1827.
name of the kntalion, then the company and name of the person, and in whose
place, which enables Lord Gower to write out the list with more certainty of cor-
rectness than can be done from a vague statement, in the letter. If there are any
more promotions or changes pray send them at the same time, that all may go at
once to the Duke of Portland; which saves trouble at the office. Pray explain
this to Major Maculloeh in ease of future correspondanee of the same nature.
Is not Captain Taylor to be gazetted also 1 Lord Gower has no objection to
his succeeding Captain Piamsay.
I received your letter this morning, and shall Jet you know in what condition
the moor game arrives. Talking of the housekeeper reminds me that last year
at Dunrobin she applied for leave to have a pony to ride occasionally, which
appeared to be a reasonable request, considering how many horses are going about
there unemployed. Lord Gower gave orders to Hookies to have one fit for the
purpose, and she informs me that nothing has yet been done about it. I there-
fore beg you to enquire into this, and give some directions accordingly.
I sent Mr. Anderson's letter to Mr. Mackenzie, and recommended to him to
endeavour to procure a divinity burse at Aberdeen for the young man you men-
tion, which will be very proper. . . . — I am, sir, yours, etc., S.
127. The Right Hon. "William Huskisson, colonial and war secretary, to
George, second ^L\rquis of Stafford, afterwards first Duke of
Sutherland, — about the purchase of York House by the Duke.
Somerset Tlaee, 14 December 1S27.
Dear Lord Stafford, — I made to the King yesterday all suitable acknowledg-
ments on your part for his having permitted you to become the purchaser of
York House. The King said that he had greatly disliked its being built at all,
but since it was there he was very glad (not being able to keep it himself) to see
it in your hands. You were one of his very old friends. He added, I think it
is also a good thing for the administration; it will save them a great deal of
trouble. In this I most cordially concur.
I have written to Loch to expedite as much as possible what is necessary to
put you in possession. I have sent a similar message to the treasury. — Yours
ever truly, W. Huskisson.
f
teJt-
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t,r fe~-* l^^-M*'' )»M"f-*-J j i*4~ fii* f y^n i\
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Ill
3.— FAMILY AND DOMESTIC LETTERS.
123. Peter Ramus 1 to Sir William Cecil, Knight, — introducing John Gordon,
afterwards Dean of Salisbury. 21st July 1568.
Scripsi ad te, illustrissime Cecili, proximis superioribus diebus tie peregrinatione
nostra, et hoc tempore cum Joannes Gordouius, Scotus, in Britanniam revertere-
tur, pra termittere non potui quin aliquid ad te literarum darem, tali prsesortim
tabellario atque interuuntio. Est enim adolescens Uteris ingenuis et liberalibus
tain ingenue tamque liberaliter institutus, lit me rem pergratam faeturum puta-
rein si spem nobilis ingenii indolemque tibi coinmendarem. Audies ex eo (si
quid forte nostri casus oecupatissimas aures tuas afficient) quid meditemur, quid
optemus, qua spe rerum sustentemur, longam denique a nobis epistolam absque
charta eonficiet. Quapropter cum Gordonius a Eamo tuo salutem tibi dixerit
spero te gratia et hum.initate (qua doetoa omncs soles) excepturum. Vale.
Lutetiie Parisiorum in Gymnasio Prreleorum; 12 Calendas August! anno 15GS. —
Tuus Ramus.
Illustrissimo viro G[ulielmo] Cecilio, equiti aurato.
Indorsed " 12 Julij 15GS. Petr. Ramus by Mr. Gordoun."
Translation.
I WROTE to you, most illustrious Ceeil, a few days ago, of our journey, and now,
when John Gordon, a Scotsman, is returning to Britain, I cannot omit sending
you somewhat of a letter, especially by such a messenger and intermediary.
For he is a young man, so nobly and liberally instructed in noble and liberal
letters, that I thought it would be doing a welcome thing to commend to thee
1 Peter Ramus or La Eamrnee, the cele- of Paris, but, dreading the renewal of hos-
brated mathematician, was present on the tilities, obtained the King's permission to
Protestant side at the battle of St. Denys in visit the Universities of Germany. He re-
1567, and, on the conclusion of peace, was turned to France in 1571, and lost his life in
restored to his professorship in the University the massacre of St. Bartholomew in 1572.
112 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1576.
the hope and inclination of a noble mind. You will hear from him (if perchance
anything that concerns us ma}* reach thy already over-occupied ears), what we
think, what we desire, with what hope of success we arc sustained — in short, lie
will supply a long letter from us without paper. "Wherefore when Gordon shall
salute thee from thy Hamas, I trust that you will welcome him with the favour
and courtesy with which you are wont to receive all men of learning. Farewell.
From Lutetia of the Parisians, in Gymnasio P rccleorum, 21 July 1508.
Thy Radius.
To the most illustrious \Yilliam Cecil, knight.
129. Lady Jane Gordon*, Countess of Sutherland, formerly Countess of
Bothwell, to Lady Agnes Keith, Countess of Argyll, formerly
Countess of Murray, 5th May 157G. 1
Madame, — Efter my maist hartlie commend ationis, pleiss your ladischip my lord
and husband lies derect this herar vnto your ladischip wyth ane precept of clare
constat to be scilit and subscrywit be your ladischip, and my lord, your husband,
for his entres, off the landis of Kyntessoch, conform to his retour and seruice
maid befoir the schereflis of Elgin and Fores, as the said berar will schaw your
ladischip at mair lynth. And sen my lordis desyir is ressonable, doutis nocht hot
your ladischip will seill and subscrywe the said precept of clare constat wyth
plessour and gude will, and siklyke will causs my lord, your husband, do the
sammyn, the rather of my reqwiste. And gif we may acqwite my lord and your
ladischip wyth sik steid, plessour or kyndnes, ye salbe assurit thairof at our
powar. Hefarring the rest to your ladischippis gude mynd and ansuer wyth
the berar, and sua committis your ladischip in the protection of the eternall God.
From Elgin, the v. of Maij 1576.
I haue bene the mair hammelle to put your ladischip to this charge that I
haue evir found your ladischipis gud favor in all my turnis ; luking it sal be na
var nov nor of befoir, seing my lord, my husband, and I is villing to deserue the
same. — Your ladischippis cusinges at vtir power, Jeane Suthirland.
To my verray gude ladie, my Ladie Comptas off Argill and Murray.
1 From the Earl of Moray's Collections. Sixth Report of Historical mss. Commission,
Appendix, p. 639.
1GU] JOIIX, TWELFTH EARL OF SUTHERLAND. 113
130. John, twelfth Earl of Sutherland, to his brother, Sir Robert Goreon
of Gordoustown, — complaining of hard usage from the High Commission, etc.
Holyroodhous, the 23 of February 1 615.
Loueing brother, — I resaved tua lettres of youris laitlie, one daitted from New-
market in the end of January, whairby I persaue your cairfulnes to attend tlie
Ei'll of Caithnes cuming to court, whairof I fear salbe neid. Your vther letter I
haue resaved from your man, Kobin,the aughten't of this instant. That same day
lie cam, M c Ky, our sistersone, cam to Leith, whair your man met with ws boith,
and your last letter this day is cum in my handis, daitted from Newmarket the
first of this instant, whairof I am most sorie that ye wer absent from your lady
in hir grcattest distres; nather will I he glaid wntill I hear of hir recoverie, which
hath moved me to hnist this berair with all diligens wnto yow. Bot we must
thank God of all. Ye ar boith young aneuch, so if your selffis be in health,
I hoip in God yow will haue chylden anew; thairfore be of gude courage, for I
knaw your melaneolious humoris haue neid to be expelled. Bot I hoip all sail go
weill if yowr selffis be in health.
It -will bt; no lytill vantage to our enemie that ye ar absent at this tyme.
I wreit wnto yow the last day with one George Muirhead, servitour to
the ducke ; so quhen ye wreit to court caus demand of the ducks servantis
if thai resaved my letter. Ye wreit wnto me in your first letter sent from
Newmarket that it is suspected his Maiestie wald mo we ane agrement
betuix Cathness and ws. I knaw your absens wilbe ane great hinder to all our
affaires. Eot 1 beseik yow haue ane cair of your avin health, and think with
your selff that God hath cassin yow iu thais pairtis not onlie for your selff, hot
also for the weall of our hous, for what moyen wald we haif at court if ye wer not
thair. Alway if the king haid moved of any agrement betuix Caithness and ws,
whatsoever ye haid done sould haue bene ratified be ws. Now, brother, I sail mak
ansuer to everie head of your letter sent with your man, Robein. I may not with
reasone wrge yow to cum to court againe, bot if it pleas God your lady recover
health and your avin leasour could seme to tak ane start to Londone, albeit
your stay wer bott for tua dayis only to try what Caithness haue done, for so far
as we hear his reward will not be so great as he lipned for, so I fear, if he can sie
no better, he w ill do what he can to cros ws, and except ye be besyd the king, it
p
1X4 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [10U
may he that the same may be -ranted that the king may be quyit of his cumber
and iiuportunot sutes. I hoip this berair salbe at yaw before the erll return*.
Ye ar wyis aneuche, do herein as ye think good. This visitasione that God heath
sent yow, and your retering from court lies giwen ws suche ane dasche that ar
your freindis, that we will daylie languisehe for word from yourself and your bed-
fellow. I will intreat yow (brother) to haist back this berair, for I am to giwe in
my supplieatione in this weik wnto tliais of the hie commissione, and hoipes to
gett libertie till go home, wiehe if I obtene, the berair mon cum to Sutherland;
bot if I stay heir, I think me not weill wsed, for I daylie haunt the preachingis,
and haue subscryved sindrie articles at the uiinwtena desyres. I am content to
do all thingis they desyir at home. Bot since Lambes last I am eonfyned. My
baill afTairrs at home ar lost. I spend my money heir in great. I am assured if
the king wnderstood how I am wsed by all thais in Scotland, it wald be hardly
thoght of. Now to mak ansuer wnto the first pairt of your letter desyring me to
hau°e yow excused that ye did not go to court efter the resett of my letter.
Treulie (brother) I will tak your excuis in verie good pairt, seing I knaw ye ar
more troubled in my affaires then in your avin. And whair ye desyir me not to
wreit so mony dyvers motiones wnto yow anent my estate, as our Scottisch
by-word is, necessitie hath no law, for thair wes nane in Scotland wsed [as] I
wes; for I wes not ten dayis in Santandrous quhen I wes charged ather to
subscryue and communicat, or ellia to go wnto ye castell of Edinbruch, so
persaving suche rigour I yeilded to go wnto the churche. And efter, as they
saw me yeeld in one poynt, they wold haue me to communicat, so persaving that
I spendit my money in gryit in Santandrous I thocht it fittest to cum to this
toun whair I wald haue acces to my freindis. Bot being cum heir, and hauing
haunted the preachingis daylie as oceasione offred, and haueing lyikwayis sub-
scryved suche articles as wes desyred of me, I now insist to obtene libertie till go
home, and ather I sail satisfie the ministrie at hame, or ellis I sail abyid the
censure of the hie commissione. So now, in one word, all that I wold haue yow
to do is to schaw the kings Maiestie of my dewtifull behaviour in all thingis the
ministrie hath put to my chairge, and wse your moyen, and sie if ye can obtene
the kingis missiue to my Lord Santandrous, that I be not troubled nor brocht
from my affaires so long as I haunt the churche at home ; and that I be not
wr-ed to resaue the communione wntill this deadly fead be satled betuix Cathnes
and me, at wich tyme I sail ather giue the ministrie satisfaetione thairin, or ellis
1615.] JOIIX, TWELFTH EARL OF SUTHERLAND. 115
sail abyid thair censure. I beliue this can not be gudly refused if ye be earnest
with the king in this, seing I haue done beyond all those of my professione in
Scotland. 1 stik longest wpon this poyiit beeaus it coneernis me most. AVse
diligens heirin, as ye loue the weill of our hons, for ye may sehaw the king of the
great workis I haue interprysed laitly before I wer confyned, quhilk I am assured,
if I yet Hue to stay at hame, sail be tyme boith profeit the eontrey and
myselfF. Bot my stay heir since Lambes hath hindred me more then I will
wreit wnto yow. So I will rest in this poynt, remitting this to your avin
wisdome and eairfulnes.
As to the assignatione wnto the liveing of Chrichtoun, when it sail pleas God
ye cum in the eontrey ordour salbe tane with thais turnes. It wer also now time
ye wer satisfied of that money I am a wand yow. Bot God willing, at your euming
in the eontrey, all thais matteris salbe satled. Glaidlie wold I haue yow to cum in
the eontrey this nixt summer fur monie respectis, and specially for satliug of thir
mairches betuix M c Ky and hip. Yett when I consider what ye haue till do whair
ye ar, as also what extraordinar expensis ye wilbe in your heircuming, I am
leath to wrge yow for this yeir except necessitie compell ws. I haue continued
all my aetiones against Cathues whill the nixt ecssione, seing he hath
gottin ane continuatione of all his aetiones whill his returne from court. I am
informed boith be Robert Munro of Assint him selff, as also be Jhone Froster,
that himself and his wyiff haue renuneed ther Laill right of the landis of Grindes
since my euming from Sutherland.
Whair ye desyir me to wreit wnto yow suche oeeurrentis as falleth
furth be packet quhen as I wreit I knaw ye will not get thame, ye being
in Salisberrie, bot when as ye ar at court ye will resaue thame. As concerning
suche thingis as ye wreit wnto me to send yow anent our genelogie, ye knaw I
can do lytill in that matter, being still heir. I sent all your information es to our
brother Alexander, and mervellis he hath not send me ansuer Dak again. Ye
knaw it wilbe hard to try the particular dayis and yeiris of suche affaires, and if
I wer at home I knaw thair is amangst the wreittis that wer in Kynnairdis
custodie that wald do yow goode. Bot ye must haue paeienee whill my name-
going, which salbe the first turne I sail do. I am now wpon sick haist that I can
get nothing from Alexander Duff that may be sent wnto yow at this tyme. Bot all
I can get salbe in rediues again Iiobins back euming, whom I will lippen for daylie.
Now, brother, I am assured ye haue hard of our extraordainarie knyehtis
11G FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1615
that wer created eftcr Christsmes, viz., the Laird of Butter and Young Mey ; and
since Uiey ar the first that wer maul in that con trey to our knawledge I wahl
not haue ws inferioures to thame in that; so my avin opinionc is that ye wse your
moyen to sie if ye can get Jhone M c Ky maid knycht Wore his bamecuming. I
reuiitt the particulars anent him to his brother M c Kyis avin letter, not flouting
bot ye will haue ane eair of him and haist him hame, going all his freindis in the
north thinkis that he is dead. And whair ye wreit that ye may not be leasoured
to cum north this yeir except we haue sum weightie matter ado, I salbe leath to
wreit for yow, bot if any neces-itie intervene ye must yeeld to cum. Alexander
Lintoun lies wreittin to yow the dait of our guid^eheris service. Bot all your
freindis heir ar offendit that ye sould haif put your seltF out of possessione of
Glenluce wutil ye haid bene muir certane of your satisfaction. Alway ye ar wyis
aneuch, bot the langer ye be continued it wilbe the wors for yow. So I pray yow
tak tyme. And whair ye wreit desyring to knaw anent our salt, efter as our warkis
beis put to sum satling this summer, in the nixt, God wilting, we think to
allure sum Tnglisehe men be your advyis to cum to the con trey.
Whair ye desyir to knaw of my younest dochteris name, it wes Marie. My
Lady Mar wes hir godmother. Scho died tuentie dayis since. If any lynning
Laid bene gettable in this contrey my wyiff haid bene glaid to haue obeyed
your letter. That is not gettable heir, for the linning is maid in the north,
and how sone scho goeth north Robin sail not return*; emptie. Now I haue
maid ansuer to all the heads of your letter, except anent my tobaco I wreit
for. Ye sail not fear that ever I mynd to wse the same. I assuir yow it is to
"iue away, for good tobaco is in more estimatione heir away then ane better gift.
So, except ye send me of the fynest sort, and of the best that can be haid, I will
haue nane, for I haue promised it to a freind. I doubt not bot ye haue hard of the
Erll off Orknayis executione. It is ane pitie to sie his lady, wha gettis no thing
of that rent, seing it is cum in the kingis handis. So I will request yow to moue
the duck to speik in hir favouris, that scho may haue sum moyen for hir tyme.
As to our Scottische occurrentis they ar few in number and lytill worth the
wreit ting.
I haue presentlie resaued ane letter from Mr. Jhone Gray, out of Suther-
land, making mentione of the abuses of wiethcraft in that contrey, quhilk they
haue tryed laitlie in Dornach. Thairfoir I beseik yow, brother, sie if ye can get
ane commissione from his Maiestie to put ane nomber of witches to ane assise.
1G13.] JOIIX, TWELFTH EARL OF SUTIIERLASD. 117
Ather this iuiquitie must be tane ordour with, or ellia honest peopill can not line
in that cor trey, I remitt the partietihms of thais contreyis to blacky is letter.
This 1*3 all 1 hauc to wreit wnto yow at this tyme, onlie remember vpon my hard
estate for the present and wse your nmyen to get ane warrand from the king to
my Lord Santandrous, that I may haue libertie to stay at hame so long as I hant
the churche and satisfies the presbiterie at hame. For if I haid stayed at hame
the church of Dornach haid bene weill repaired or now, and monie good turnes
done that never wilbe done in my absens. The least mL&iue from the king wilbe
ane sufficient warrand to my Lord Santandrous, for he is so envyed be thais of
his avin professiono that he dar not schaw favour as he wald. Schir James
Stewart is till go wp to court in Apryill nixt. I pray yow, if ye can, fail not to
be throughly acqutnt with him. lie is my great freind in all my affaires. So
ho will moue my lord chalmerland to be our gude freind. Schir James is ane
wyis man and of ane gude spreit. He will informe yow suflicientlie of the Kill
of Cathnes proceidingis in Orknay.
I did wreit wuto yow in summer last how the hous of Cad ell, Maynis,
Parke, with tuentie chalderis victuall thairabout is to be sauld. Trenlie,
brother, it is ane commodious pairt for yow to duell into. It hath both libertie
of the hillis and sea. Sick oecasiones will not be found at all tymes. So
albeit ye wer in debt it is for ane honest cans. Advyis heiron and think
wpon itt, for thair is mony in sute of it, viz., our cheiff, the tutor of Kyntaill,
with dyvers vtheris. I knaw not whair the Iyik occasione wilbe found again.
This is all I haue to wreit for the present, onle haue cair to get me libertie till
"■o hame. Adverteis me what ye wald haue done, and haist the berair bak with
your mynd in all thingis. Luik that ye send me ane fyne spying glas with my
tobaco if ye wald haue ony thing sent bak. Foryett not my loueing commenda-
tiones to your good father and to your bedfellow, for whais health I long to hear,
whom with your self I committ to Godis protectione, and sail euer rest your
loueing brother euer to his pouar,
I haue [given] the berair tuentie poundis Scottis.
118 FAMILY AX D DOMESTIC LETTERS. [IGlo.
131. John, twelfth Earl of Sutherland, to Sir Egbert Gordon, his
brother, — wishing a warrant from the King to stay at home. 22 May
1G1D.
Loueing Brother, — I resaved your letteris from your man, Itobin, the secuud
day of this instant, daitted from Salisbery the nynt of Apryill, and am glaid
to hear of your avin weilfair, your goodfatheris and your bedfellowes, which
I longed for sence I hard not from yow from the tyme ye depairted from his
Maiestie to visitt your lady. I sie that when ye directed this berair from
yow ye haid no eertantie of my homeeuming ; and now (brother) since I
haue obtened libertie to cum and visitt the contrey, haueing sett cationc wndcr
paine off fyue thousand merkis ather to subscryue and suear or ellis to entir
in waird again at Mertimes nixt. I wald not haue gottin releif without I
haid sett this catione. Alway the occasions that moved me so till do wes that
I hoiped that ye sould obtene of his Maiestie ane warrant! to the archibischop
that I sail stay at home before Mertimes ; for quhen I get the said warrand, I think
to enter and to tak instrumentis that my eatiouaris ar relived ; thairefter I will
deall with the bischopes wpon my warrand, if [I] gett it. Iff it haid pleased God
the [that] the bischop of Santandrows haid lived, I wald not haue put yow to this
panis ; bot now ye mon ather deall with the king for my stay at home, and that
so long as I haunt the church and dwelleth in Dornach, or ellis I wilbe bot ane
wraked man ; for my last being in the south hath done me great harme. I wes
forced to sell my haill fermes at my being in Edinburgh, to the number of four
scoir chalderis, bot I haue riot resaued tuentie ehalderis of the haill. Such ane
yeir wes never sein with vs. Mony will pariseh in thir contreys throwgh fami[n]e
and neuir more ley land for fait of seid. The berair can sufficientlie instruct yow
heirof. This is the onlie sute I haue to era we for the present,* to sie if ye can get
me Hue to stay at home, whiche 1 mon lippen to your avin moyen and diligens ;
and if this be not obtened, the nixt cours ye mon deall with his Maiestie, and
lat me haue ane licens to pas aiT the contrey. For except this my doing satisfie
his Hienes will, I sail be glaid content to quyit my pairt of Scotland, induringhis
Maiesties will. Ane of thir headis ye mon purches wnto me, or ellis I wilbe
forced to entir in ward. If so be, my estate is wndone for ever. I will not regrait
farder thairof at this tyme. Alway ye must ather purches ane warrand that I stay
1615] JOHN, TWELFTH EARL OF SUTHERLAND. 119
at home, or ellis libertie to leaue the contrey, which never wes refused to any
man ; Lot if I enter in vraird again, ye v. ill never sie me rtdived again, for they
think to excommunieat me, thinking thairby to get my lyifrent. This is the onlie
scliott thai haue at me, and not for my religion. 1 neid not to lippen for favour
as the warld goeth ; thairfore liaue ye ane cair to saiff me from entrie to ward,
and suche ansuer as ye obtene from his Maiestie I lippen for adverteisment from
yow about the end off September.
As to my affaires in law, if I go south in winter, which I must do, I
wald haue yow to obtene aue letter of his Maiestie to the chanceller, ane
vther to the secretar and the third to the advocatt, anent my infeftmeut ;
bot I pray yow deall with my lord chalmerland for ane particular letter to the
secretar in my favouris, and luik that your selff wreit auc earnest letter wnto
him also. I am leath to insist in that actione so long as the erll is duelling in
Edinburgh, for I knaw he hath great moyen in the cessione. And whair ye
wreit that ye ar informed the counsell wes to burdene me with ane new submis-
sione, I neuer hard such ane matter propened. We sulbe war thairof.
As concerning Akiuheadis turne, I knaw not what to wreit of it, that is deir
aneuch wnto me, and I did mak sindrie advysmentes with my advocattis anent
thai actione. Hot I am resolved it will not availl me, yett I will insist thairin.
So the diflicultie that is found in this actione is, the gift of bastardie, quhilk is the
ground of our gift of nonentrie, it [is] not worth, seing that bastardie wes disponed
in the queues minoritie, and wes revoked be act of parliament in hir maioritie.
So ye must be cairfull to find remcid heirof, viz., ye must obtene of the kingis
Maiestie ane gift of the said bastardie, or ellis ane ratificatioue of his Hines
motheris deid ; but this our nonentrie will availl nothing, so ye must haue ane
cair heirof.
Whair ye wreit that ye may not be leasored to cum this yeir in Scotland,
I beliue that Weill, seing ye can not await upon the king this progres and cum to
Scotland in one simmer. I knaw (brother) thair ar sindrie that wilbe desyrous,
wissing yow to cum in the contrey rather for their avin particular and vther menis
also, then for your [and] my weili Bot few consideris what extraordinar expensis ye
bestow on such vayages. If I saw any necessitie of your cuming, I think I haid more
for me then any vther to wis yow to cum, bot I will not counsell yow cum this
yeir, first, becaus ye must attend his Maiestie for our motheris releif and myne ;
nixt, becaus the merches betuix Macky and me is continwed whill simmer nixt,
120 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETT E IIS. [IG15.
inrespect of this evill and stormio simmer that men may not stay in the hillis for
s tonne, and lastly, inrewpeet 1 knaw your bedfellow will be leath to want your
presens in Iiir motJieris absens, and your goodfather seikly as lie is. But yow
must resolue to cum the nixt simmer to sattle all thingis, and cum in tyme that
ye may haue the haill simmer before yowr hand to do your turnes and ours also.
I persaue ye wer adwerteised be sum weill disposed persone that I wes to pas
ane contract queatlie with my Lord Elphinstoun. Thais who haue so wreittin hath
not sehawin yow of the trouble and dett I haue contracted boith for thame and
the contrey ; bot I beliue they haue not wreittin wnto yow my estate might be
recovered. I wald wis to God I haid never bene more begyled be my avin con-
trey people then I think to be with him. Aneuch for this purpois.
Whair ye wreit anent Innirboll, that ye will continew the same in your avin
hand wlnl 1 your avin earning in the contrey, I mervellqulmt sould moue yow to be
so suddenly altered, that wreit wnto me to caus tak ane crop out of it, and to do
with it quhat I pleased ; whairwpon I coft baith liors and oxen of my avin to
plenisch the same, and now ye wreit again to behakl it whill ye cum. Alway I
am content it ly lc} r , as it hath done this yeir bygane, and lyis presentlie ley.
Lot if ye think it will do yow suehe profeit, I lippin ye will not hinder me, seing
I soukl yeirlie haue out of that toun better then thrie hundreth markis, and lies
uot resaved ane pennie as y it. Bot I fear quhen ye cum to ane compt with your
greiff, ye salbe beyond ane hundreth crownes be yeir out of purs. So adverteis
me of your resolutione heirin with the first eommoditie. As to your memoran-
dum ye haue sent of suehe thinges as concernes the contrey, it is not possable
for me to get the same tryit at ane instant ; so I think that will not be weill done
whill your avin euming in the contrey, bot I sail try all that I can agane the nixt
oecasione. This is all I haue to wreit for the present ; only intreating yow to be
cairfull for your motheris releif and myne.
Giff the bischop of Santandrous haid lived I wald haue maid moyen for my
releif, bot now we ar only lipned wnto yow. Macky and I duelleth this winter
in Doruach, if I get line to stay at home. The haill gentilmen of the contrey will
duell thair also, so be tyme we think to male the toun better. I mervell also
how ye wer so slouthfull that ye tuik not ordour with ane merchant in Edinburgh
called Alexander Telfourd, wha heth your band wpon sex scoir poundis Seottis,
quhilk I am presentlie forced to tak wp and pay annuall thairfore for releif of
your band. I wreit wnto yow before to send me ane spying glas, quhilk I lippin
1010.] GEORGE GRAY OF SOTIUJAUL. 121
ye will send with this berair again that be good. So ray loneing commenda-
tinnes being remembered to my lord, your goo. I father, and to your bedfellow,
whom with your self 1 commit t to Godis eternall protectione, and ever sail leniain,
your loneing brother at all pouar, J. E. SimilRLAXD.
Dunrobin, the xsii of Maii 1 CIS.
I will intreat yow (brother) to send me ane pair of the fynest dowle
virginallis ye can get for money, seing ye knaw I can not want the lyik out of
my lions in Dornach. I lippin ye will not faill to do this, as ye wald haue me
cairfull to do your turnes heirefter, seing my bearnis av learning to play and sing.
Luik that ye cans sum skilful I weall thame, and to send thame in sum snir crear
that cumis to Scotland, and cans delyver thame to Alexander Watsone or
Lambes, Alexander Watsone will haue ane crear with salt of myne in Loudoun,
so ye may appoyut.
To my loueing brother, Sir Robert Gordone, of Kinmouowy, knycht
132. George Gray of Soirdaul to Sir Robert Gordon, tutor of Sutherland, —
requesting the latter to defend his letter of tack, etc. 21st September 1616,
Rycht WoiRSCHirruLL, — My hummill dwetie of serwice being remembrit, 1 wreit
to yowr woirschipe in my last lettir at lenthe annentis the prowd, presurnteows
and misknrtes forme of deling the larde DufFus lies wsit aganis yowr worscipe.
I hawe haldin back the first brwnt, for I hawe suspendit Mr. Allexander Dwf
his chargeis till yowr worschipe haid bein informit of their intendit purposis. I
suppone the haill gentillmen of the perrochin of Creyche sail gif ane competent
stipend to their minister, being qualefeit and hawing the lirryss langeg. Now
yowir woirscipe hes to prowyid for the defens of yowir awin talk, quhilk is giffin
be me, I being chantour to yowir nobill fatheir of guid memorie. The taik wes
presentit to Lintowne, yowr ajent, and wes suspendit one the groundis of beithe
our taikis. Itt salbe weill doun that yowir worschipe hawe ane cair of this
mater, seing for ray awin part 1 will do as the rest of the gentillmen of the
perrochin will do for satling with ane resident minister, quhilk of conscience we
ar mowit to do. And as for the teindis of Fronsie, I sail delywer to my lady, or
to the schirref, ane sufficient lettir of taik, weill swbscrywit and seallit be guid
Q
122 FAMILY ASD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1C1C.
bisehoip Kol^rt, and th*» haill channownnk Lat yowir woirseip caws defend
the sam, and extend yowr moyan to gett the suspentiou faworable disewssit, fur
Duffus hopis to maik the archebisehoip and the rest of the bischoipis in yowr
coutrair; so that gif yowr worschipe ganestand them nocht in tyme, and that
with exact diligence, itt will pa. agauia yow. This far I thocht guid to infurme
yowr worschipe of and to lctt yowr wirschip wnderstand that, albeit I keipit
my lordis lettir of taik in plcge of the lettir of taik promesit be yowr nobill
fatheir, yit, scing the necessitic of the inater for defending yowr wndowtit rycht,
I thoclit metest to direct the said lettir of taik to yowr wurschipis agent. Gif the
suspentioun be disewssit in yowr wirschipis fuwouris, I dowt nocht bot yowr
worschip will deill with rae faworable according to promeis, to the quhilk I will
■ ewer rely as mv plicht ankir. My ladie, the schiref, and M c Ky is maist willing, gif
the moyan mycht be haid, to gett Mr. Johue Gray to the bischoiprie of Caithnes.
We that ar yowr maistersehipis puir freindis wald wiss yowr worschipe to extend
yowr moyan to forder that mater for yowr awin weill. Gif itt will stand for geir,
we sail extend our moyan to the wteimost for to gett that mater doun.
I dowt nocht bot' ye hawe harde of the misfortunat trwb[l]c renewit and
fallin furthe againe betuix M c Ky and his wyf, quha wes delywerit of ane soun, the
quhilk M c Ky refuissis to be his awin. Owir haill freindis heir hawalie regratis
this wuliaippie interpryis that M c Ky lies tain one him in bringing with him to
Stranawir the Erie of Crawfowrd his sistir, in doing quhairof he hes lost many
freindis, and in speciall the kirk of Skotland cryis out terrable one him. The
chansler, quha wes his lowing and professit freind, is his professit onefreind, as
we ar informit. My lorde of Kintaill and all that will do for him will do quhat
thei may aganis M c ICy. My lorde of Caithnes is nocht iydill, gif he culd gett
men to assist him. He hes imployit the Cadellis of Caithnes to slea Allistir
Dcwi Donald Eobsoun, bot wes refusit be them. He will nocht gett ane boy to
do serwice to him. We wondir that we heir nocht my lorde of Caithness put
att, for his lordschip attendis the worst, and hes his bark in redines to slip to the
sie quhen ewir ony occatioun is to be ofiferit. Now, I wilbe this hemlie to say
gif their be ony actioun in yow, itt will kythe now or newir. We wndirstaud
yowr worschipe hes gottin the ball at yowr fwit, and gif ye haill nocht the doill, I
wiss ye fell in the myir.
The larde of Fowlis is to be mareit one Willame Murray, the thesawrer, his
brwtheir dochtir, and suld gett, as Fowlis schew me, fowrtein thowsand markis
1616.] J AXE, COUXTESS OF SUTHERLAND. 123
with his intcrteinment till he be owt of dett. Gif so bo I supone he salbe a long
bwirder. M*Ky aud the larde of Fowlis ar fallin in exceding gryit. God gyid
them boithe in the feir of God to their ewerluating ueillis. Owir heill freindis
and cuntrey men ar in gwid helthe, prasit be God. Their wes newir in Suther-
laud a bettir croipe one the grownd, gif we geit guid weddir to win the sam.
Owr nibowr cuntrey of Cathnes wes newir wer. Owr hummill comendationis of
serwice being rcmembrit to yowr woirschipe and to yowr sweit lady till I be
acquent with hir, I maist hartlie taik my leif, aud restis yowr woirschipis
maist hwmmill and obedient serwant, G. Gray of Soirdaul.
Skibo, the xxj of September, [1616].
To the rycht woirschipfull the tutour of Sutherland.
1 33. Jane, Countess of Sutherland, to Sir IIoblrt Gordon, her son, — of the
desirability of appointing Mr. John Gray to be Bishop of Caithness.
24th September 1616.
Sonne, — Sen George Gray is hame cuming I haue resauit na aduerteisment frome
yov. I think the occatioun is ve resaue not sic lettiris as ye derec, nathlr cumis
ouris to your hand, becaus sic as var acustoniit to resaue and taik ourdour vitht
our turnis in the souith ar becum our onfreindis. For your gudsistir hes insencit
hir fathir sva aganist your brothir and me that he declaris him self our onfreind.
The parteculeris heirof I remit to your brothiris declaratioun. I pat your brothir
sonne to Mr. Jhone Gray to lerne sum mair vcrtes nor he culd sie athir vitht hir
or me, I vas aduertesit that scho myndit to haue sent him to hir fathir, and
thair eftir to haue purchast your gud vilL Gif ye be burthenit thairvitht aduyis
quha sail furneis him, for my moyen is not meit for sic vayagis, and I belcue thay
sail be sueir to vair on him thameselvis. Ve heir that our bischep is to be maid
bischep of Abirdin. Gif sva be, ye haue caus to taik attendance that ane onfreind
cum not in this cuntray, for gif thai do it salbe na small hurt to your brothiris
hous. Freindis hes travalit vitht Mr. Jbone Gray quha is varay sueir to acsep
sic offece, albeit it var in his ofEr, for he thinkis that vitht suir contience he
can not taik that offece, seing that leving is not abill to plant the kirkis.
Thairfor gif his Maiestie vald taik sic ordour vitht Chatnes that the bischepis
landis thair mychfc be restorit to the kirk, I think freindis suld moue Mr. Jhone
1-24 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1CIG.
to acsep of it, othirvayis gif his Hincs vald alov the thoveand pun J is pentioun
this bibclicp of Chatuea hes to the nyxt, and that to he liftid out of the erlldome
of Ross (the silvir to be cnuvertit in vittuell), Mr. Jhone vald be presit to deill
thairfor. Vithtout ane of this tva na honest man vill talk it, and ane cum thair
that sekis it rather for gain nor gud contience. Remetnbir that I ailuerteis yov
that your houss vill repent it for sic resouns as I vill not vreifc. It salbe veill
done that ye aduerteis George Oiay quhat maybe lukit for hcirin for dyuers
respeetis. I am not veill in hekh presentlie, quhilk makis me that I can not
vreit many thingis to yov that I vald. Ane thing I vreit vitht greif of hart,
your sistir sonne M C Y, his hame bringing ane sistir of the erll of Cravfuris to his
greit disgrace, lois of the chansler and his alya, and (that quhilk is varst), hurt of
contienee. Gif he mycht haue provin any caus of partesing aganist his vyif (as I
am in dout of it), this bestlie eours lies takin that avay, and I heir hir fieindis
thiukis to intend partesing against him, and sva to cans hir bruk hir lyuerent.
He hes not cum to this cuntray sen his aiming frome Ingland, nathir resauit
vour brothir nor I any aduerteisment frome him exsep at his first landing that he
vas cum hame. I pray God send him ane b^ttir advyisment nor I heir be is of.
I can vreit na farthir for the present, bot luking ye will advertcis as occatioun
offiris, I rest
Dunrobin, the tuantie fourt of September, 1616.
To my loving sonne, Sir Robert Gordoun of Kiumonvy, tutour of Suthirland.
134. Jake, Countess of Sutherland, to Sir Robert Gordon, her son,— that
it was impossible to send more linen cloth. 2 2d November 1616.
Sonne, — The xv of this instant November, I resauit ane lettir of youris, tlaitit
at Salisberie the xvij of June, quhairin ye desyir mair of the small lining eleith.
Trevlie gif I had gottin aduerteisment in tyme, I vald not haue slipit sic ane
turne, bot this tyme of yeir it is not in my pouer to get it. Ye vreit that your
lettir is derec vytht Adam Sitharris sonne. I marvel! quhov he hes ovirsein him-
1C1C] SIR ALEXANDER GORDOX OF XA YIDALE. 12-5
self sa far tli.it nathir broclit it vytht himself, not (nor) aduertesit that he had left
it in Edinburgh. M c Yh b*j that broclit the lettir liame scliev that he gat it fra
Alexander Vatsouns vyif. Aftir Barrisday your bruthir scliev me ane lettir of
youris schavand that dalie ye expectit sic ane thing. 1 culd gif na ansur thairto,
becaus I had nathir sein vreit fra yov nor your vyif. Heirfor blame me not,
for I vald bein vara kith to haue dissapontit hir fathir dochtir (albeit the mater
had bein greter), altho scho var not your vyif. I haue sein na lettir of your
hand sen Lambes. I pray as occatioun of berris offiris hit me knav of your helth.
Be not sa sueir, for ye knav not qnhov lang ye'vill haue me to vreit to, and per-
hapis may viss to haue me quhen ye vill not get me. Tlie cuntray effaris I leue
to your broth iris lettir. I leue to trobill yov forthir, and restis, your loving
mothir, Jane G. Suthirland.
Punrobin, the xxii of November 1G16.
Your brothir dochtir Amies lies her servece recommendit to yov.
To my loving sonne, tutour of Suthirland.
135. Sin Alexander Gordon of Navidale to Sir Robert Gordon, his brother,
— regarding the teinds of Pronsie, and the Laird of Duffus. 2 2d November
1616.
RiCHT worschimtjll and loweixg Brother, — I wryt to yow dywers tymeis
at gryt lenthe anent the cuntrey perticuleris, but hes resaweit na ansuer as yit -
only ye \vryt in your last letter to me, deattit in September last, that ye re-
ceaweit thea lettres, and wald make ansuer thairto with the Erll off Euzie, quhais
cuming we heir not off as yit, quhilk makis me daylie to exspect your ansuer. I
resaweit this last letter off yowris from my Lord Elphinstowne, withe ane letter
of his awin thryss worsss than the furmer, quhairoff I sent yow ane coppie.
AllwayisI will newer make ansuer to sik daft lettrestill his lordschip and I meitt;
at quhilk tyme, quhen he heiris and onderstandis the weritie, I think his lord-
schipis sellff will say he hes not done weill. He wrytis to me that ye hawe
wryttin to him, that it is altogidder by your directioun that I hawe done any thing
to my lady anent hir teindis and wicaradgeis. Giwe sa be, ye hawe done your
selltf and me bathe wrang, seing I will qualifie bathe be wryt and witnes sik
directions as ye gawe me. My lady and I ar onder guid tennis at this tyme,
and hir ladyschip schaweis ane letter of youris direct out off Edinburgh, quhair
126 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1616.
ye wryt that hir father ami ye ar agreit in termeis, and sclioo suld hawe hir awin
teindis this yeir, ami yc (n got the fisching off Brum this yeir, quhilk we gat sa
far as was to, and the kauor dettour for the rest, and that na alte ration n suld be
maid on hir ladyschipis this yeir. In this ye hawe owersein your sellff far, and
maid hir ladyship to hawe the radge schoo haid againis me. For giwe thair war
no alteration^ to quhat effect war inhibitions serwit ; for sa far as schoo haid your
former letter for hir warrand ye wald newer get spuilzie, quhilk hes moweit hir
father and hir to be in sik radge against me. Alhvayis I think ye suld do weill
to wryt to my Lord Elphinstowne heiranent to susspend his lordschipis judgement
heirin till we all meitt, at quhilk tyme all materis salbe tryit and sattlit to his
lordschipis contentment, for I am Ieithe we suld be hard at this tyme, seing we
hawe grytter turnis ado. Wtherwayis I wald not suffer his lettres onansuerit;
hot seing we ar liklie to be trublit be Duffus, we will do weill to rin ane cowrss
for the Kill of Suthe.rlandis weill.
The actioun anent the discussing of the richtis of the chantorie is in doing
now, and I hawe wryttin to Allexander Lintouu to be cairfull to sie giwe
lie niey get it continowit (giwe thair be ony danger thairin) to your awin
liame euming; and ye sail do weill to wryt to my Lord Elphinstowne to
be cairfull that the Laird Duffus get na advantage against the Erll off Suthir-
land, for it is schame he suld be outschot be his awin wassail. I serwit
inhibitiouns and arrestment against thea teindis off Pronsseis, bot befoir they war
schorne the Laird Duffus purchassit lettres to lowsss the arrestment, sa that in
tua dayis they leid all thair beir to thair cornyardis, quhilk I thocht werie hard,
and ane gryt lichtlie, nocht onlie to the Erll off Snthirland (quha is bot ane
barne) bot Iykwayis to ws, quha hes ane cair off his adois for the tyme ; for the
leiding off" thair cornis was war than the talking off the richt of the teindis. For
pretending ane richt and putting thame sellffis in possessioun by leiding thair
corns, they left nothing to the Erll off Suthirland bot ane actioun, quhilk
I thocht hard. Sa I conweinit the gentillmen off the euntrey befoir M c Ky (quha
was heir for the tyme), and schew thame the esteit off the mater, and that
I haid resolwit to cast thae teindis ; for I thocht it was fitter that the Erll off
Suthirlandis wassail suld suit his supperiour than his superiour to suitt.him,
quhilk M°Ky and sindrie wtheris thocht fit, yit thair was sum that grudgeit at
it, as kythit in end. Allwayis I directit "William Innes and Piobert Aikin and
Robert Baiizie withe my lady is tenncntis off the parischin off Culmalie to
1616.] SIP ALEXAS&Kti GORDOX OF XAVIBALE. 127
the turn ; and beibir my cuming out of Dornoch I spake Gollspitour to forder
that caus with men and horsss, quhilk he promht me to do. Bot efter
my cuming out off the towne, quhen William Innes soeht helpe, he ab-
snlutly refuissit, alleclgeing he was onder lawborrowis to the Laird Duffus.
Sa that eftcr they enterit to cast the teinds they culd get nather horss to
It-id nor handis to helpe, quhilk moweit me to burding our haill name with
horss and men ; bot I was hailliiy refuissit be thame all in ane woce, except
the guidman off Bakeis, quha send his sone Allexander with sewintein or
auchtein horss. As to the rest, they seimit inair to grudge at the turn doing than
wtherwayis. In end I was forcit to imploy my lady, my guidsister, for support
of horbss, quha willingly send all hir ladyschipis tennentis horsss for tua dayis
thair, sa that the haill burding liclitit wpoun the puir tennentis off the parosehin
off Culmalie and Costsyid. I pray God the Erll off Sutliirlandis guid turn be
never lippinit to manie in this cnntrey, for I think giwe they sawe his bake at the
wall in ane gryt mater they wald stres thame sellffis littill to releiff him quhen
they maid scruppillin sik ane triftill.
Bot to return to the purpois ; the teindis war all castin and led to Aehiudean
quhilk Duffus thinkis the gryttest oppressioun that ewer was done to auie. He
is riddin sowthe to complein to the Cunsall and to rais lettres to charge me and
the haill puir men that war at the leiding to compeir befoir the Cunsall ; for he
will newer get spuilzie off it, seing his freiudis and tennentis lies intromettit
withe thair a win cornis again, quhilk cuttis away the spnilzie, quhairwpoun
instrument is tain. Sa I think giwe this turne be weill meinit to the Cunsall,
it will be thocht littill wrang. Bot my opiniouu to yow is to wryt ernestlie
to the ehansler anent this turn, meiuing bathe quhow the Erll off Suthirlandis
richt was taikiu ower his head, and quhow they preassit to disposses him in his
minoritie, and that ye direct this letter to Allexander Lintoun to be giwein
my Lord Elphinstoun, giwe neid btis thairoff, and that ye wryt ernestly to my
Lord Elphinstoun to be cairfull that Duffus get na advantadge in that turn, seing
it is the Erll of Suthirlandis turn, and he can suit na man for the samen except
the chalmerlane and puir tennents quhais deidis ye man defend. Allwayis in
your letter to the ehansler ye sail wryt in my fawouris and take the burding
wpoun yow, quhilk will putt off the mater to your cuming, at quhilk tyme I
think maters will take wpe or at leist be warss for Duffus. I can wryt no moir
to yow off this purpois bot refer it to your awin judgement.
128
FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [161C.
■ We heir off bis Jlaie*teis cumins to Scotland in ISIerclic, quliilk I pray God
itmey pro we trew, at quliilk tyme. I think ye sail cum to Scotland I assuiryow
youradois heir requiris your cumin- in tyme. A II way is I lippin ye will adverteis
me withe the first occasioun, perticulerly oil - all thingis, and in speciall off your
dyet, for I hoipe to meit vow in Ediuburgh ; and giwe ye cum with his JIaiestie
yourludgeing vald be tain in tyme, for all the best ludgeingis in the toun ar taikin
alreaddy? As to cuntrey newis heir we hawe nane, bot thair is ane wniwersall
fiwer in thir partis quhairon gryt deathe followis. We hawe loissit tua guid
fellowis in that siknes, Alexander M c WilIiam M c Ain M c Kenuiche and lwer
M c Conchie, quhairoff I am sorie, yit the will of God man be done.
I am persuadit dywers will suitt delay at yow, bot I request yow promeis it to
nane till ye and I meit ; for T will get yow als thankfull pcyment and serwice for it
as any man. I feir we will get na mair than fywe libs, for the boll off our wictuall
this yeir, for it is werie guid schaipe. We can get na monie for the strenthe off
Dunrobin and Innerbo, sa we will be forcit to lat the posscssouris keipe thame
this yeir. Thair is na monie gettabill in this cuntrey. I natlier hawe gottin
your silver from Balnagowin or J hone Murray, sa adverteis me quhat to do.
lM\y hes gottin nane except thrie huudrethe libs., quhilk I cawsit William Innes
giwe him.
I dowt not bot ye hare hard or now quhow M c Ky tuik away withe him
ane sister off the Erll of Crawffordis. I am sorie he suld hawe lost sa guid
ane fame as he haid for sa wyld ane caus. Adverteis me quhow he is thocht off
thair for it, or giwe his JIaiestie hes hard off it. He thinkis to put Mr away
■ schortly. Scho is gryt with chyld and remainis as yit in the Iyll off Lochtyoll.
He repairis nawayis to his maried wyffe, nor thinkis not to do. My Lord oft
Kintaill ami his freindis thinkis hard off the miswsage of his sister. M c Ky
thinkis to get deworsment, and they think to pey him withe rccompensatioun.
They ar onder trysting efter Andersmes.
I tuik occasioun to burding my freindis and gentillmen off the cuntrey
with sum helpe be reassone off the dett I hawe contractit by biging off the
howsss I bigit ; bot I hawe gottin ane nolumus. Bot I am glaiU of the excuis
they pretend, alledgeing that ye ar to sik ane support off thame at your hame
cuming. Thairfoir I pray yow lat thame nocht be desaweit in thair opinions, and
sie that ye and I bathe be not disapointit ; for in consciens it is weill gottin, and
can be tain off manie of thame, and ye mey weill get it for your awe ; ye will
1C17.] SIR DOXALI) MACKAY. 120
get littill for your lowe. Bot I pray God ye or 1 atlier be liLtill in thair re werens.
I whi'he Gtorgu Gtuy liaid ane -aid turn a*l*> quhairiu I int-y pk-asour him ; fur
in my coujciens I can newer find ane faill in him in any thing he is impluyit
appeiteining any offrh or our hou.iss.
Thair is ane John Craw fiord in Innerness takeiug ordour with the adultereris,
and lies suminond dyvvtrs off this euntiey men thair to the xxvij off this monethe ;
quhair thair is gryt missing off yow, for I think giwe ye war heir ye wald
nocht be out of guid eompanie. I lippin daylie for ane ansner off my lettres from
yow, and hi special! quhat ye will have tain fioin the puir tennentis for thair
bow, for giwe ye suit xij merkis for your bow the land will go ley; sa, as I wryt
bt'foir, my opinion is to take atlier ten merkis or fywe firlatis as mey be gottin,
quhitk I will eaus take to compt and rekining. I have na furder to new oecasioun,
bot my hnmbll dewtie reniembred to my lord, your guidfather, and his lady, with
my serwice to }'our awin lady, I rest and sail still remain, youris loweing brother
to be cunuuandit to death, A. Gurdoune.
Dunrobin, the xxij of November 1616. x '-^
I spake my lady, our mother, anent the lining ye wryt for, and hir ladyschip
lies wryttin hir auin ansuer, quhilk ye sail resawe heirwithe. Faill not to get
ane gift off nonentrie off my lordis landis sens our brotheris diseeas till efter this
Mertimes, wtherwayis it will cost yow deir, as I wryt to yow in my former lettres.
136. Sir Donald Mackay to Jane,, Countess of Sutherland, his grand-
mother, — wishing to have disputes settled. 5th May 1617.
My werie honoeaeill good l.vdy and LovrxoE mottier, — My serwice remem-
beritt. Flais your ladyschip tliatt itt is no littill greiff to me to heir the reportis
thatt youris ladyschipis sune, Sir Robertt, lies lettin abrodin ewery plais at his last
beinge in Morray, off my onnaturall deilinge to the Erll off Sutherland. The warld
sail kuaw the eoutrair ; in testimony quhairoff I am mostwillinge thatt all alegitt
pertieouleris be settlitt be the frindis and owersman alredy schoisin be Sir Robert
and me, and to that affect I hawe derectitt the bearer with this letter to your
ladyschip to requyst your ladyschip to spek Sir Robertt and to send me ane ansour
gewe he will byd be the eompremitt alredy supcryfitt, or gew he will Iett the
R
no
FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS [IC17.
same desartt. So I pray your ladyschip nott to be cairlcs off this perticouler to
sic itt settill in tyme ; or wthenvayes I tak thir presandi.s to wittnes thatt I am
wetles off ony thingc thatt may hnpin hcirefter in theyis matteris. As lykwayes
I tak God to be my wittnes gewe I be forsitt to tak ane eonrs by the hous off
Sutherland thatt may hinder the same iu this erll his miuorytie thatt the same is
sar wrged off me, and that the blame theroff sail nocht be laied on me bott on
the wrgcris off me therto, I pray your ladyschip to remember quhatt trawell,
trowbillis, and crossis your ladyschip hed to bringe my hous to the obligatiouu off
dowtie and bloud, thatt the Erll of Sutheiland, your ladyschipis grandchyld, hes
me at this day. Lykwayis your ladyschip sould be als carfoull to sie the same
continow, as your ladyschip was than to bind ws in friudschep. \Tehawe all the
honour as to be desenditt off your ladyschip, therfor nan sould be so cairfoull to
sie the same scttlitt a^ your ladyschip ; bott the wrange way it is to settill be
bostinge me; for the warld knawis thatt I am ane imp off thatt same stok thatt
him selff is off ; and itt may be thatt my will is moir than my witt. So,madame,
itt is best thatt it settill iu tyme, befor wc boithe repent too leaitt, and our fois
to laiche and frindU to lament our folly. This far I thocht good to mak your
ladyschip forsine boithe to discharge my consieuce to God and my dowtie to the
Kill off Sutherland and your ladyschip, to quhom I pray, God to prosper longe and
good lyff in this warld and salwayriouu in the lyff to come. Gewe J hed inter-
cept letteris of my wnkillis it bed bein thocht cvill nianeris, therfor it is best
not to mak ane ws off it. Your ladyschip knawis that I wald be lathe to sitt
with sik ane wrange off auc wthcr. I rcquyst your ladyship gewe thair be ony
partt off this letter thatt will not content your ladyschip thatt your ladyschip will
censour the same with ane motherly affectioun, and consider thatt my mininge is
sikin^e pace and concord with all your ladyschipis barnis be ane frindly drcs ; so
hoipinge thatt your ladyschip will ad wertis me gewe the tryst will hald, orquhair it
sail hald, or. quhat day, I rest and sail ewer remane, youris ladyschipis loweinge
soun to serff yow, S. Donald MacKie.
Chananry off Ross, the fyft off Maye 1 617 yeris.
To my wery honorabill good lady and loweinge mother, my Lady Countes of
Sutherland, this.
1617.] J AXE, COVXTESS OF SUTIIEELAXD. 131
137. Jane, Countess of Sutherland, to Sir Kobert Gordon, her son,
— regarding his gift of Golspie tower, etc. 16th May 1617.
Sonne, havand the comodatie be this borer I haue vretiu this lcttir, albeit this
lang tyme past I haue hard na vord fra yov. I ruynd not to trobill yov vith the
cuntra afiaris, for I supee ye sail find facherie at lenth quhen God sends yov veill
hame. Sum thing of your avin parteculer I think gud to lat yov knav. Young
Gulspetour hes recallit the gift vas maid to yov of Golspetour, and maid intima-
tioun thairof at the kirk of Dornoch the xx day of Apryll. Gif ye think ye ar
damnefeit thairbc, it is thocht that ye may mend yourself gif ye taik tyme. Ve
ar informit that at the last parlement thair vas ane act maid that quha revischid
ane damisell vithout hir parentis consent (albeit scho vald say it var vith hir
avin vill), it suld be trasone. I knav not gif this act vill stik on the complesis of
the prencipall actour : bot it is of trouth that the third of Fabruer last youn^
Golspetour, aeompaueit vith Villyam Our in Inverbo, Adam Pypirsonne in
Crakok, Alerter, George Govis sonne in GoUpemoir, Gilbert, Alester Pyperis
sonne, Alester Gordoun, Donald M c Kyuich M c Onill M c Thomas, greif to the said
Jhone, the vthir tva his servandis, vith dyvers othiris, inspetiell Jhone Bovy,
sonne to Alester Pyper, thay come to Culmaliemoir about x houris at evin to
Alester Chesomis houss and forsabillie tuik avay his doctir, Janet, had hir to
Golspetour, quhair scho vas kepit tva nichtis and revischit be Jhone Bovy, Alester
Pyperis sonne. Your brothir vas in the souith. I vas not knavin nor obeyit
ontill my Lord of Chatnes come to Skelbo, at quhat tyme I thretned gif thai vald
not put the damisell to libertie I suld taik him be the baud to reveing it. Then
vas scho brocht to me, quhen scho declarit that quhat vas done vas aganist her
vill ; and to gif pruif thairof scho remanis sensyne vith hir fathir and mothir, and
vill nevir heir" to marie that man albeit thair hes bein fair offiris maid to hir.
Gif ye think this actioune may mend yov, dcill in tyme vith the tresurer, and
be suir, for it is ferit, and he menis to deill fur it. Ye may knav varay veill
quhais opinnioun ye seik heirin. Your gudsistir is altogethir gydid be his fathir,
and that at hir fathiris desyir. Scho hes set the half of Badinloch to young Golspe-
tour, and four penne land in Lochbeg to his brothir Piuchune. The act of parle-
ment I vreit of thay say vas maid for the dochtir of Villyem Tr[u]mbill in Edin-
burgh, that vas takin avay be ane Moscrop, aud eftirvart mareit to the last
presidend, Maistir Jhon Prestoune, his sonne. As to othir cuntra afiaris, it is
\?>2 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTER*. ' [1G17.
not ncidfull to trobill yov vith thatne at this tyme. Nathir vald I haue vith
this gif I had out thocht it for yuiir veill. Taik quhat euurs ye pkis heirin ;
bot I sie na cours takin heir be thir men bot that quhilk is lytill for the
Erll of Snthirlanilis profeit or yonris. My guddochtir is dissapontit of eleis
sclio promesit to hir soiine, thairfor ray barne vautis, and I haue na radie
silvir; thairfor I vill desyir yov to caus bring hame ane stand of haliedayis
eleis to him vith the farming, cluik, dovbiljet, -coit, brekis, and schankis. Al my
aviu partecularis I remit to meting. Ane thing I may not omit quhilk is ve heir
his Maiestie is to reduce all mv landis to the kirk. Quhen my lord, your fathir,
sauld the fev landis of Chatnes it vas in maner of excambioun, and the landis of
Stravlze giffin in varandice. Thairfor ye man taik cair quhov the barne may be
savid fra the varrandice. It vilbo ane eomoud cavs, thairfor vill get many to
aduysevith. At your brothiris snithcnming I sail wreit mair parteculerlie heirin;
to quhilk tyme or farthir occatitioun I rest. — Your loving muthir,
Jane C. Suthirland.
Dnnrobin, the xvj of May 1617.
To the riclit wovschipfull and lowing maister, Schir Robert Gordoun of Kyn-
monwe, knycht, tutour of Sutkiiland.
138. George, first Marquis of IIuntly, to Sir Robert Gordon of Kin-
monowie, knight, afterwards of Gordoustown,— regarding a witch, etc 1
Huntlye, the xvij of August 1G17.
Right srEClALL cousinge — Efter my werraye hcartlie comendatione, according
to the desyir of your letter, I hawe sent to the guidman of Luekie, my cousinge,
and hes willit him to doe justice on the witche, quhilk ye wryt to me lies
bevitchit Golspitoures sone ; thairfore ye maye adverteiae Buckie quhensoever he
comes to Inuernes for that effect. As for the quhyt hound ye wryt for, he can
nocht be sent to yowe at this tyme, becaus the morn audit dayis I haw apoyntit
ane wolffe huntis in Marr, and am to hunt my seltTe thair ten or tualf dayis
thairefter, and we ar skarser of houndis heir nor ye ar thair. So my luifing com-
mendations remembcrit to my ladye, my ant, your mother, I will commit yowe
most heartlie to God. — Your most lotting cousing, Huntlye.
To my ryght speciall cousinge, Sir Robert Gordon of Kinmonowie, knicht.
1 Original letter in Lamg aiss., in Edinburgh University, Historical Letters, No. 497.
1017.] ARTHUR, LORD FORBES. 133
139. Arthur, Lord Forees. to Sir Robert Cordon, of Gordonstown, tutor
of Sutherland, — as to the proceedings* of the Earl of Caithness with his
creditors. 2d September 1617.
Right Honorable schir and trest freinp — Pleis hatiing occatioune off the
berar, ane boy off M c Kys, your sister sons, I thoct gnid to viyt thir feu lyins
only to knan off your gnid estait, and your ladeys, and of all freindis quhair ye
ar quliilk I long to heir off. Ye sail vit my Lord of Cathnes hes gottin ane
suppercedere from his merchantis and creditouris till Mertimes nixt, and ane off
tuais his iutentioime, as I heir. He is first to iraploy the gentillmen and laudit men
in Cathnes to be sirirty for hiru to his ereditouris, quliilk thai do it vill mak him
to duell in Cathnes, bot it vill be ou thair perrell. The secund eours I heir he is
to tak (giue the first feilis him) is to transport his plenising out off' Cathnes, and
to tak payment oft* byrune restis from his tennentis, and to remaine seuintem
yeiris out oft' Cathnes, him selff, his vyff and eldest sone, and to giue the mar-
chantis the handling off his rent for that space. Mony beleuis he sail nocht keip
to his merchantis, and thai beleue he dar noeht brak, because he lies promesit sua
to the kings majesty; and I am off opinioue he sail tak the thrid cours to leue
the countrey arid dissapoynt his merehautis, quhill he sei sum alteratiouue or
change, and than he vill get ane act oft' obliuioune. I heir he is nocht veill
myndit to Makky, your sister sone, thairfor vryt to him to be circumspect off
him selff. I lyk nocht the out latting off thir threi lymmeris that brunt my
eornis, and ather it is done off polesei be my Lord off Cathnes to caus vtheris
slay them vnder pretence off ane vther quarrall, or than he hes putt them out to
doo sura euill turne. Quhairfor, hauing aduysit vith freindis, I haue send for
letteris off captioune agens them, for ane commissioune vald be reweilit. Sua
giue thai euin in the boundis off Sutherland ye may caus your brother, Schir
Alexander, apprehend them, or ony messin'ger of arms. Ther is onley the differ
betuix letteris. off captioune and ane eommissioune. Be the eommissioune, ye
may slay all that is eonteinit vithin it, bot be verttu off the captioun, ye may
onley tak them alyffe. Lot I think in this sua odius ane eryme, I think the
captioun sail seme for ane eommissioun, for thai ar resit verey generally and
npone ane eriminall horning. The letteris I haue send them inclosit vithin
Makky his letter, and he vill seud them bak to you, quhilk I pray you keip veill,
aud be secreit therin ; for it var ane gryt credit to you, to Makky, and to my
134 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1C17.
sclfF to get, them presentit alyff bofor the justice. Sua I vill request you agen vse
diligence and secresei iu this erand, for he is both diligent and ma[li]tius, that is
ngens vs. Giue the Eirll off Claris huntis lied noeht bein presently I suld haue
send you ane leicshe off guid greuhouudis; hot ye sail expect them villi the uixt
berar, or at my cuming north, quhilk I houp, God uilling, sail be schortly, giue
this litill truble off my cusing, Blaktouns, var satlit. Sua my hartly commenda-
tiounis off seruice remembrit to my ladey your mother, my ladey your guid sister,
and to your auin lady, quhom all vith your selff I commit to the loue and fauour
off God ; vith your brother Schir Alexander, and all honest men in Sutherland, and
restis, your assurit guid freind to his vttermost, Arthur L. Forbes.
Driminoir, this 2 off September 1G17.
Be nocht sueir in vryting to me as ye find occatioune, and I sail vryt vith
euerey berar. I heir my Lord Elphingstoune is nocht to cum north this vinter,
but is duelling in the place of Arthe, and to be this vinter in Stirling.
To the rieht honorable and his assurit guid freind, Schir Robert Gordoune,
tutor off Sutherland. Delyuer theis vith diligence.
140. Sir Robert Gordon, tutor of Sutherland (address wanting), probably to
his agent iu Edinburgh, respecting the state of affairs in Sutherland, and
legal proceedings.
Dunrobin, the 22 of February [1618]. 1
Traist Freind, — I hawe hard no word from yow since Mr. John Grays south-
going, to whom I refar dywers particulars. I hawe sent this berar south to
adwerteis my Lord Elphingstone that Macky lies gone quyetlie to Cathnesse, and
hes spoken and agreid finalie with the Earle of Cathnesse vnkuowen to my Lord
Forbes or any of the house of Sutherland. What effect this agreement may pro-
duce is vncertane. But I pray yow to remember my Lord Eiphingstone or my
Lord Kildrummie to speak my Lord Chancelar or the Clark of the Counsell that
thir be na commissions granted to Macky, Murkle, or any other within Cathnesse,
Sutherland, or Strathnawer aganst any man till we sie what this aggreement
drawes to. And if thir be any man within Sutherland or Strathnawer
that the Counsell wold hawe, Iat them charge me or the Earle of Suther-
1 From the Elphiustone Collection. Ninth Report of the Historical MSS. f Commission,
Appendix, Part II. p. 199.
1618.] SIR ROBERT GORDOX. 135
land for them, and we shall produce them, cither Sutherland men or Strath-
nawer men, seeing the Eavh* of Sutherland is thir .superionr. For we ar affrayed
that Macky hes promesed the Earle of Cathncsse the lyffs of some Strath-
nawer men or Sutherland men whom they may get lawles for old maters
vnknoweu to ws ; and getting a commission aganst them, being in Strathnawer,
Macky may easilie dispatche them ; fur we ar most affrayed fur such as hawe bein
trustiest to this house. Gif thir will be anie commissions graunted, and that
blood flow thereupon, it will sheake the countreys loose agane. Do heirin as yow
think expedient. Ther is a couutrey man of mine called Donald MaeDonald Mac-
Ean in Moy, that is at the home for not rinding of lawborrowis. I hawe wryteu
to young Sidderay, if he be in Edinburgh, to giwe yow money to get the gift of his
esheat. The homings and all ar sent to young Sidderay with this berar. Gif he
be not in Edinburgh yow shall receawe them and paase the gift, aud whatsoever it
costs yow, I shall send it to yow with the first commoditie. Let the donatour be
George Murray in Laydie, and if yee get the gift past, send home the gift with the
summonds of declaratour with this berar. I intreat yow do your diligence heirin,
and giwe it be r^qnioite, let my lord *peak the thesaurer heirin. Let no man knowe
but your self and my lurd that young Sidderay knowes of the mater. I long to
heir what effect the coraissiou takis. We heir all gois be transaction with the
partie, and that such as giwe good augmentations get heritable taks. If this be
true I doubt not but the Earle of Sutherland will get heritable taks. I expect
daylie for word from Mr. Jhon Gray, and that yee vryt at lenth with him of all
things. I hawe wryten to my Lord Elphingstone to adwyse if ane taksman
during his taks may cut and sell or destroy the woods of the land that he hes in
taks of the heritour by the heritour his owne consent, whereof yee shall adwyse
and adwerteis me thereof. I knowe he may cut to his owne vse and bigging.
Put in the gift of escheat ane thowsand raerkis that Donald M c Donald M c Ean
hes in wedset vpon the toun of Moy from the Earle of Sutherland, togidder with
fywe hundereth merkis which he hes in Jhon Gordone of Eackies hands on the
lands of Craygie ; quhilk thousand pounds shall be specialie nominat, and his
goods and geir in generall. I lippen for my Lord Elphingstonescomming north
in Merch. Gif Sidderay be not in Edinbrugh delywer thir letters as they ar
directed and send Sidderays letters home agane, and Mr. Jhon Grays also, if he
be returned home. Thus I end, resting always. — Your assured freind,
S. Robert Gordone.
130
FAMILY J. XV DOMESTIC LETT E IS.
[1C1S.
Aak ane answer of MacLoyde his letter bak agane villi tins berar.
If M c Douald M c Kan in Muv lies, sent south to Walter Hay to get the gift of
his owne esheat, and that yee si'e Walter Hay or any other dealing for it, yee shall
cause my Lord Elphingstone be the more earnest with the thesaurer to get it. Do
your diligence heiriu as yee wold do the Earle of Sutherland a good turn.
I hawe sent yow heirwith the contract betuix Duffus and me ; yee shall cause
register it, and send me the extract back agane.
° Ther ar some of this countrev men that ar charged for the money that they
promesed to Jhon Crafourd for adnlterie whervpon they gave thir bands, and
they receawed Crafourds tickets for remissions. They ar at the home, and ar
willino- to pay the money provyding they get remissions. Therfore I pray yow
cause my Lord Elphingstone speak the thesaurer that they may get remissions,
and the money shall be payed when I go to Ediubmgh at Witsonday,
141. Sir Donald Maceay to Sir Robert Gordon — tlurt he is to sell
Edderachillis, and wishing him to purchase it. 1st April 1618.
EYCHTTWoiiSCHIPFTllxand loweinge wnkill : Plais yowr worschip, thatt the oca-
tione off my lang stay is endinge ane bargane with Meny anentt my blok, for I
ame byin-e my blok fre him agane. I most fournis hime ten thousand ponndis att
this terme • the rest I will gett lang conteinowationne for, payand the anvoll. I
haiff gaderitt all my deatis to ane, and efter resollowtioune with the towtour off
Kentaill Meny and vther frindis, 1 ame resolffit to sell the landus off Adrachiths
bewast Laxfourd, with this yeiris salmond, quliilk will pay all my daittis. The
towtonr off Kentaill and I is in spekinge for the landis, so that I haift giffine
promis to heme or Witsounday ether to sell the landis to heme be your advyis, or
els to cans your worschip to releiff hem off- his catinorry. Therfor I will recmyst
your worschip to provyd the ten thousand poundis againis Witsounday, and to
by the' land your selff. For the rest off the mony that -will be ower yow sail
gett tow or thrie yens conteinowatioun theroff for anvoll and sourytie. As for
this silver off John Bocheuanis, I assur your worschip thatt it will be contemowitt
for anvoll. I will lett your worschip understand at mitinge wery good resounis
that mouffis me heirto. Therfor I pray your worschip to provyd this soume in al
best, boithe for your avine weill and myne ; vthervays I will be forsit to sell that
laud to the towtour. It is best to hald out or pout owtt, bott nesessitie mouffis
1619.] ALEXANDER, FOURTII LORD ELPHIXSTOXE. 137
resoune. I may nocht, be at them this audit dayes yitt, nor yitt I may wrett to
yonr worship fit Ian the "booms this bearar is in best. My Lord Elpliinstoune
will nocht meitt you in Mar, bott he hes send word to Corrall and to Thomas
Esphne to delyver yow ony wrettis that yow plais. Yow mane be heir befoir the
ternie for your keirkis and vtlier affairis. I dout uodit bott Aleestcr Lintouue
hes wrettine to your worschip as your keirkis w.is in handlinge at the plaett. I
haiff enditt for my keirkis. I will nocht hesard to tuk John Iiobsoune his ascheitt
on yon hornings till I spek your selff. So to miting I rest, — Youris worschips
loweing nephue to daitlie, S. Donald Macky.
I pray your worschip to gett the band fre my Lady or I go home, for all
matteris will go the better; and I pray yow to consider this letter weill.
Edinburgh, the frist off Apryll 1G18 yeris.
To the ryebtt worschipfull and my lowciiig wnkill, Scbir Robertt Gordoune,
towtour off Sutherland.
Halde all materis cpiyett till miting.
142. Alexander, fourth Lord Elfhinstoxe, to Sir Robert Gordon of
Gordonstown, tutor of Sutherland, — about a decreet pronounced by the
Sheriff* of Cromarty, and as to Sir Donald Maekay, etc. 8th February 1619.
Kycht Hoxourabill AND ltjiffing eme, — I ressauit your letter yesternycht be
Alexander Lyntoun, quho with my eldest sone com boythe to this toun, and hes
considderit the contentis thairoff. I ressauit also ane long letter from the
Schirray Cromartie, my gndesone, purgeing him selff weray far in that decrcit he
pronunceit, that he did nothing thaiiin to the preiudice off the Sutherland men,
and that in caise ho had not pronunceit that his decrcit, the men off Sutherland
had bein in ane worss kaice. It war longsome to mc to wreit all the contentis
off his letter concernyng that mater. I haiff conferrit at lenthe with Alexander
Lyntoun thairanent and anentis the suspentioun reissit off that his decreit, quho
maikis me to beleiff that nochtwithstandding that he hes reissit ane suspentioun,
the ressonis ar frewolous, simpill and nocht abill to be sustenit, and he seis men
kyithe them selffis in that erand that he feiris thair moyane and credeit sail
prewaill; yit all salbe doun that can be doun thairin, and it salbe weray weill
doun that ye yit caus deill with the schirray, my gudesone, to se giff that turne
S
13S FAMILY AXE DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1619.
may be mare frcindle and kalmele taikin away, as sumthing thairanent my selff
lies writtin to him with this yuiir avin poist.
And as to your sister sone, Schir Donald, quhat sail J wreit to yow off
him, bott sen boyth ye and I do knaw him, and haifl" sein quhat we haiff
sein off him, I beseik yow be the mare war and cireumspeek with him, and
kaiie your selff the mare wj-sle, and knaw and knaw nocht, bot be ever
vpon your avin gard with him ; for off treuth I feir him mare nor I do
any man leiffing that he salbe the gretest enemie that the hous of Suther-
land sail haiff, quhilk is onnatnral to him, and be that menis seik his avin
wraik. Bot I beseik yow to be wyse, and hut no oceasioun justle be offerit to
him, but keip him als far as ye can, that the haill warld may se your part, and
maik him incxsensabill. Ye ar wyse aneueh, and men warneit ar haiff arineit,
according to the auld prowerb, and knaw and knaw nocht, and be ever vpon your
avin gard. This [is] all I can wreit concernyng your sisters sone, and quhat I
haiff wreit tin to Golspitour, my Lord Forbes, and the Schirray Cromartie ye may
reid, thairefter cloisc, and send to everie ane off them as ye think meitt. And I
am glald off the purpois betuix your broder dochter, my oy, and young Fren-
draycht. God len yow mony yeris to your broder sone may be abill to acquyt
your gudewill and to do his avin erandis, nocht douting nor God will help
yow and him boyth.
And as to my northe cuming to Elgin in June, giff my helthe and abiletie
may serue [I] salbe leithe to be fra any turne or erand the hons of Suther-
land, your selff, or menest freind pertenis yow sail haif ado, quhaiiin my
'presence and help can serue them for any vse. Bot ye will lait me be tymele
aduertist, and apoynt your meting als far furtlie as ye can, and nather in
July or begynnyng off August, nor in Junij. Bot that I remeit to your avin
discretioun, fur giff possible ye may, it war metest about the middest off August,
quhen the cessioun is vp, that I mycht bring our my eldest sone with me. Bot
this I remit to your avin discretioun and nixt aduerteisinent. I sail derect my
sone to speik with the B[ischop] anentis the productioun off the evedentis, and
Alexander Lyntoun to taik ane day, bot ye man haiff them radde in caise he be
straitt. And I am sore that my wreit is so iwyll that I feir ye sail haiff difficulte
to reid it; bot ye man aequent yow thairwith and taik panis, for I can nocht
derect any vther to wreit theis purpoiss I wreit to yow, and thairfoir taik yow
tyme and lesour to reid itt. And I M ill dow end with my luifEng sendee to my
1G19.] SIP, DOXALD MACKAY. 139
lord, your broder sone, your selff, your bedfellow, my lady your moder, and
b rider do chterris, and remanent his soncs. The Lord pveserue yow in long lyff
and gud h el the, and them all, now and ever, restis, youris luifEug erne to serue
yow, ELPHLNSTON.
Sterling, this 8 Februar 1619.
To the rycht honourable my luiffing erne, the tutour off Sutherland.
143. Sir Donald Mackay to Sir Robert Gordon, — regarding the commis-
sion against the Earl of Caithness. 10th August [1619].
Rycht IIonoralill Schir and loweinge wukill, I resawed your hononris letter
this day, the Lard of Foullis being in company with me. I hawe considerit the
contentis off your letter; quhair your worschip de»yrit me to mit your honour in
Sutherland the sext off this instant, this is the tent day, so blame the caryeris
off your honouris letter. As conserninge the commission quhilk the Consell hes
desyrit yow to tak aganst the Erll off Cathenes, the Erll off Cathenes did knaw
therof long syne and is on his gard, and hes prowydit for his awin saiffetie : so
that in my opinyon it will be ane longsom bissines, evill and hourtfoull for
the countryes and without profit to your selff; and as ther is nocht wantage
to be win at the ould maneis handis, yow may expect als littill thankis off his
sone, my Lord Berydell ; so that I will requyst your worschip to think off this
perticouler aricht. Gew it be a pcrtieouler that hia Maiestic will haw done, and
that yow be imployed therin, your worschip salbc assuritt off my pour assistance.
In my opinyoun that yow most lait the hervest go by or yow go to Cathenes, for
wittuall was never so skant ; yit on your worschips nixt dow adwertisment I sail
be rady to go to Cathenes and mit your honour, or to Sutherland ; so I pray your
honour to adwertis me off your worschips nowes. I rest your worschips lowing
nephue, S. Donald Mackie.
Dirymoir, the 10 of Agust.
To the richt worschipfull aud my lowinge wnkill, Schir Robert Gordoun,
towtour off Sutherland.
140 FAMILY AND DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1619.
144. Sir Donald Maceay to George, fifth Earl of Caithness, — that he will
attend the meeting with Sir Robert Gordon. 27th August 1619.
My very honoraeill good lord, I reeeawed your lordschipis letter, and renders
your lordschip many thankes for your lordschipis paines taken with my vnele for
setling vs. I was ewer and shall be to my death bleamles with my vucles ; and
no mau knowes better then your lordschip what, dewtie 1 reserwed to them, and
speeialie to the house that we hawe all the honour to be come off. Befoir I
reeeawed your lordschipis letter I gat ane letter fra my Lord Forbes wryten at Sir
Roberts desyre as I think, desyring ane frit 1 eomuning with me at Elgin the 22 of
the nixt moneth, quhilk I will keip, for I rather hawe ane frie eomuning first, that
I may knowe what Sir Robert wold be att. Your lordschip shall wryt that I
shall keip the 22 of Agust in Elgin preeislie according to my Lord Forbes his
letter and as my Lady his mother wryt to me. So I rest to death, youris lord-
schipis lowing eousing to serwe yow,
S. Donald Macky.
Loghstalk, the 27 of Agust 1619.
To my very honorabill good lord, my lord Earle of Cathnes, this.
145. John Aeernithy, Bishop of Caithness, to Sir Robert Gordon,— to
provide the vicarage of Culmanie to Mr. Alexander Duff. 29th August 1621.
Right HONOL t RABILL, yee remember at our last meeting we condiscended, as I
think, that Mr. Alexander Duffe should haue this yeirs viccarage of Culmanie for
the sen-ice he hath done at that kirk ; and seing he informeth me that he doubts
of [his] obtaining of it, these are therefore to entreate yow that, as we agreed
therevpon, so he may haue it ; and that yee may geue a solide and reall direc-
tion that he may get it, or else the just worth thereof, that he haue no further
occasion to eomplane ; otherways I will be forced to tak some other course with
him which perhaps will not so well please yow. I desire yow to dresse that mater
so that he haue no occasion to think that he is not dealt too rigorouslie by ws.
Yee shall excuse me that I could not vpon such suddain advertisement visit yow
1C23.] ANDREW LAMB, BISHOP OF GALLOWAY. HI
in Edinburgh at this time ; and I wi.-di yee may haue a happie journey and as
happy and safe returne. I rest, your assured friend,
J. B. of Cathnes.
Jedburgh, August 20, 1621.
To the right honorabillj Sir Robert Gordoun, tutor of Sutherland, etc.
146. Andrew La^ie, Bishop of Galloway, to Sir Robert Gordon, — his
unsuccessful efforts to obtain an audience of the King. 21st April 1G23.
Richt HONORABILL Sir, my heartiest salutations rememberit. I thauk yow verie
heartily for your horse, and sal be readie to aequyt that your kyndnes and eourtesie
the best I may. The day befor his Maiestie parted fra Whithall, I saw his
Hienes dynne, and took occasion to speak liim, and sliaw him my languor to
stay longer heir, craving that in the afternooue it micht please his Hienes to
dismisse me: bot hardly would he grant thairto, for his many vther businesses.
In the afternoone I tnoued Jhoue Livingston to remember him againe, bot he
fand him no vtherwayes disposed for the said reasons. The morne after I meaned
myself to my lord Duke, whose Grace desired me to dynne with him, and
thairefter made me to follow him to the back staires thair to attend til his Grace
had gotten the opportunitie to gett me a word of his Maiestie in his adience, as
I hade willed his Grace of befor to doe. Bot his Maiestie being importuned with
a number of bussinesse, specially about his dispatches to Spaine, refused to giue
any man adience that day : alwayes did assure my lord Duke that he was most
willing to giue yow satisfaction, if he knew whou to doe it, or could find out any
thing fitt for that purpose. My lord Duke thoucht not fitt that I sould fash his
Maiestie more at this tyme, bot that his Grace would hold him in mynd of it.
So hes the Deane of Winchester promised to me that he sail sKppe no good
occasion to remember his Maiestie of it, and I haue left him ane letter containing
the evil that I haue sustained in that sute, and that sal follow both to the churches
hurt and myne, if it succeed not. I was not able to follow his Maiestie to vYinshore,
for since your parting this vyld humour aboundes againe, and now is turned over
vpon my best eye, with great paine and dolour, so that I am in feare of the lyk
inconvenient vpon it, as I haue already felt on the other, except God Almichtie
in his mercy prevent it. Would to God I hade neuer cum hither, and that ye
had hade your desire, altho I sould haue queat al the benefice and liued a priuat
1 4 2 K i MIL Y A XD D 021 EST IC L ETTERS. [ I G 2 3.
lyf at home, enjoying the benefit of my health ami s>icliL; fur this voyage and
i'asliiOLis attending U almost bereft me altogether of my sieht, and wil doe no
doubt of my life also. — Welcome be the Lords send, to whose safgard I recommend
yow and rests, your assuitd good friend at power,
A. B. of Galloway.
From London, the 21 of Apryll 1G23.
To the richt honorabill my verie assured friend, Sir Robert Gordon, knicht,
tutor of Sutherland, these.
147. Jane, Counters of Sutherland, to Sir Ropert Gordon, her son, —
to bring Anne with him from Strathbogie. 25th May 1G23.
Loving SONNE, your broth ir lies schavin me that ye ar myndit to cum to this
countray, quhairof I am maist glaid. Quhen ye cum I pray yov to bring Any
vith yov. Elspet Lesle vilbe in Straboge at your rehiring, quhonie I haue villit
to stay ontill ye cum. llorss meit is varay schars in thir partis j thairfor ye sail
do veil to cum fro me Mvrray be sic, and bring Any vith yov, quhilk vilbe maist
esy and last chargabill. I haue vretiu dyvers tymis to hir gudbrothir for hir,
Lot he vald nevir grant to lat hir cum to your hanie cuming. Xov he hes na
exeuis. Gif he vill lat his eldest sonne cum vith hir I vald be glaid of it, that
I micht schav sum thankfulnes to him. He nedis not feir materis of religioun,
quhairof he hes evir maid his exeuis to me, for the barne is not capabill of that,
and quhen he is, he salbe at his avin command as resoue vald. I vill not trobill
yov farthir at this [tyme] seing ye [liaue] sa mone afaris to trobill yov; bot
vissis to God that I mny sie yov in gud helth, and restis, your loving mothir,
Jane C. Suthirland.
Dounrobin, the 25 of May 1G23.
Quhen ye cum to Frendrach send to Robert Riudis and he vill [let] Elspet
Lesle speik vith yov.
To my loving sonne, Sir Kobert Gordoim of Kinmonvy.
1G24.] KATH ARISE, DUCHESS OF LEXXOX. 143
148. Katharine, Duchess of Lennox, 1 to Sir Robert Gordon, — desiring
his presence at the bearing of her cause. 14th October 1G24.
Good Sir Robert Gordon, the daye appoyuted for the hearinge of my cause
before the (torn) is put of, as you wished it myght be till Thursday, which
sha[ll be] the 21 of this October or till the next daye followinge a[t the] farthest.
I praye you therefore, good Sir Kobcrt, fayle not to [meit] with me on Tuisdaye or
"Wednesdaye next at the farthest, [so] that. I may not want your presence at the
daye of hearinge, for which porpose I haue also written to Air. Deane of
"Winchester] and to Sir George Keire, whoe I dout not but will be here
accordi[uge] to my desier, that vpon the hearinge thereof I may knowe w[home] to
trust to. I vnderstaud Sir Geoige Elue.^ton is com to the courte. What his
plott or proiect may be I knowe not, but my hope and desier to you all is, that
you wolde haue a watchfull eye ouer him to prevent any newe designe he shall
goe about. — So longirtge to heare from you, I will ever remayne,
Pi
Synce the writinge of these lynes I receyved your letters for which I thanke
you, and I doe beleive all toucbinge your selfe, but for Sir George Elveston, the
divell a bitt.
From my house in Drurie Lane, October 14, 1G24.
To my worthie freind Sir Robert Gordon, knight, at the courte.
1 Her Grace was the daughter ami heiress of Gervase, Lord Clifton of Leighton BromeswoW.
Hi FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [162G.
149. Alexander Stewart to Frances, Duchess Dowager of Lennox and
Richmond, — requesting mouey to help liim in levying a company of
soldiers. 12th February [162C].
Mate it pleas your Grace, it hath pleased my Lord of Nithisdalle to giue me
a eompanie in his regiment that he is to earie out of Scotland to the king
of Denmark, only out of the respect he hath of my lord your Graces husbaudes
memorie. And being that I am to receauc my money in Scotland for my lewie,
wich will hardly doo it, and that I am altogether wnprowided both of money to
earrie me thither and of freudes to doo for me, I liaue taken the boldnes humbly
to entreat your Grace to put this last mark of your favor wpoue me in helping
me with some money; and althoeht I must coufes ther hath not bein in me that
merit that I eould wisch to deserue this fawor at your Graces hands, I kno the
remembrance of him whose serwant I was once will be ane sufficient mediator
with your Grace. I must confes I was newer in a way of liwing lik his and your
serwant till now, and without your Graces help I schall absolutly loose this
oceatione of my fortones. So I must humbly Ids your Graces hands, and schall
ewer be, your Graces most humble serwant, Al. Stewart.
Westminster, the 12 of Febrwary.
To the Duehes of Richmond and Lenox hir Grace, theis.
[Postscript in the handwriting of the Duchess' letter, No. 148 above.]
Both theis letters you may shewe to Houston, and lett Alexander Stewart see
myne.
150. Frances, Duchess Dowager of Richmond and Lennox, 1 to Sir Robert
Gordon, — regarding some demands by" A. Haitly. 12th February 1626.
Cosen' Gocrdon, At your farewell you promised to visitt Elvetham Parke once
a weeke with your lines, but perchance you reserue all vutill you eome to
Newmaikett.
Heere is a letter from Alexander Steward, which I send you to reade, and soe
to deliver my answere, for to Hay dyes demands I gaue not a worde. My former
1 Her Grace was the daughter of Thoma3, Viscount Bindon. Her third husband was
Ludovick, second Duke of Lennox and first Duke of Richmond.
1626.] FRAXCES, DUCHESS OF RICHMOND AXD LEXXOX. 145
dcedcs, ever since I was first soe liappie to bee the ■wife of my lord, beesides the
hundred pound I ganc him pre^entlif 1 after the funeral I, the paying his debte after,
and taking him out of pryson, and my favour, care and desert, that I had of him in
all kinds I leaue to the worlds censure, not to his vngratefull sclfe; nor will I
add any accuser saue his owne conscience.
I did imagine that hce had made profit t inougli of the strange sute hee made
of the plate which was stolen from niee, which by his meanes yeilded wrougfull
gaine to him and losse to mee.
God send mee meanes to performe my lords tombe, to pay such wages as in
honour and conscience I am tyed to doe, and at my death to giue some leagacies
and tokons to such of my lords kindred and creatures which I knowe hee valued.
And because Alexauder is a Steward, I shall wish hee may prosper and deserue
well in time to come; indeede I thinke it is happie for him to bee gone out of
England. I shall ever bee your inviolable freind and coson, and the saddest and
vnfortunatest of all widdowes.
Elvetham this xijth of February 1626.
To my much esteemed coson, Sir Itoberte Gourdon, this.
151. A. Haitly to Sir Robert Gordon,— about a request by Mr. Stewart.
13th February 1626.
Sir, — According to your desire I deliuered Mr. Stewarts letter to my lady, and
vsed all the best reasones I could to perswade the furtherance of his requeast, and
among other arguments I told her that yonr self and John Houston had earnestly
written in his behalf. So all I could obtaine was that she wold writ her miud
HG FAMILY J.XD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [IG'27.
vnto yovr. "What it is T know not. If it do not sueeeid well, I protest to God I
cannot help it, for I did what lay in my power to perswade her. So with my
seruiee remembered to yow, I remain e, your seruant, A. Hattly.
Eluetham, the 13 February 1C2G.
To my much honored fremle, Sir Robert Gordon, knight, gentleman of his
Majesties priay chamber, Richmond, these.
152, Sir Robert Gordon of Gordonstown, to Frances, Duchess Dowager
of Richmond and Lennox, — about the Duke of Buckingham's farewell
entertainment to the King and Queen. 1 ith May, e. 1G27. [Draft.]
Madame, — I hawe presumed to embraee your Graees faworable and gratious
offer made vnto me at my parting from Klwertoun, which was that I might
detein the half of my debt vntill the nixt tenne. I hawe not reeeawed sueh
moneys as I did expect, neither hawe I yet gotten any out of the exehecker; so
that I hawe payed Maister Langford but the halff of my band. The rest I do
intend (God willing) to pay the nixt terme, if I do reeeawe any out of the
exehecker, or at Miehelnies at furthest. I am sorie (considering your Graees
vrgent affairs for the present) that I eould not discharge all at this tyme. I was
loth to leawe my self destitute seeing the exehecker pay eommes on so slow.
I hope that amongst all your Graces other fawours towards me yow will pardoun
this my boldnes. Ther oeeurres nothing heir worthie the wry ting. This day
the Duke of Buekinghame doth feast the king and the quein at York House,
wher he doth intend to enterteyue them with a maske for his feareweell. No-
thing talked off heir but off his jimmy which (for auy thing I sie) is yet vncertane,
althogh thay giwe out that he will be gone the nixt weik. Great preparations
made and many woluntaires do go. Ther is some speech heir of a blowe that
the King of Denmarke hath gotten lately. I pray God it prowe not to be so.
— Thus I rest, and so wishing your Grace all happines, I remeane always, your
Graees serwant whilst I breath, S. Robert Gordon.
14 May.
To the worthe and werteous princesse, my Lady Dutehesse of Richmond and
Lennox hir Graee.
1G2S.1 Slfi ALEXANDER GORDOX OF XAYIDALE. 147
153. Sir Alexander Gordon to Sir Hodekt Gordon*, his brother, — for
iustrucrions about the Earl's ehaiter-cliebt at Kildiummie, and about the
feud between Frendraught and Eothimay. 21st June 1C2S.
RiClTT wORSCHrPFULL and loweing brother, I \mt to yow schort sens out off
Aberdein, sens quhilk tyme I tnik occasion to cum to St. Androis to wisitt the
Earll off Sutherland and his brethrein, our nephewis, quha ar all (praisit be God)
in goode healthe. And now haweing cum bake heir I thocht goode to wryt these
few lyuis to yow, quhilkis I hawe sent to Edinburgh with William Gun, quha
was in St. Androis also, and earn heir with me, to schawe yow that I rnerwell
that I newer receaweit anie woord from yow sens that letter, quhilk ye wryt to
me out off Salisbcrrie, quhilk was deattit the 17 off March last, quhairoff I wunder ;
quhairby 1 perceawe (as I think) that dywers off our letters ar miscaried ; quhilk
will make me to slip no occasion in tyme cuming, hoiping still that sum off my
letters will sumtyme cum to your handis. I do not remember giwe I wryt to yow out
off Aberdein that the Laird of Barnis was dead, aud thairefter that I wryt out off the
Boig with Hew Gordouue off Coltts to the Master of Elphingstowne (quha was than
in Potachie) to take ordour with my lordis chartour-kist, quhilk is yet in Kildrum-
inie ; quhilk be his letter he promisit to me to be ansuerabill for wntill your cuming,
or at least your adwerteisment ; thairfoir adwyss yow quhatt best cowrs to take
thairwith, seing it is ane mater off so gryt important I think befoir the resett
off this letter our meach, Frendracht, and the Laird off Bamff wilbe at cowrt ; for
they red to Edinburgh agetward thair out off this towne on Thnirsday last
tymelie. Thair was ane gryt bissines betuix Frendracht and Rothimey, quhilk
was liklie to cum to ane hicht, war nocht the Marquis directit me to Frendracht,
and tuik wp the mater to his lordschips sicht; quhairin I dowt not bot Frendracht
will schawe yow my pairt. All way is we satlit them in end and maid them to
drink and schake handis, and gawe Frendracht (as I think) contentment, for the
Marquis was his freind and weill-willer. I request yow, giwe ye sie Frendracht
at cowrt, do him all the fawour yow can, quhilk I neid not to wrge yow withall
seing ye ar werie weill willit to all your freindis off your self. I wryt to yow
befoir that I was boistit be Issobell Euchannan anent that acht hundrethe merkis
quhilkis I restit hir, and Walter Strachoun as cationer for me, quhilk ye knawe
I hawe satisfied, and ye bund to reliwe me thairoff. Newertheles I receaweit ane
letter from hir yisternicht, being in St. Androis, assuiring me giwe I sent hir
148
FAMILY ASI) DOMESTIC LETTER^ [1628.
nocht hir aimuallK that schoo suld caus regktrat my hand and charge me ; quhilk
anuuall in consciens I haid nocht to giwe hir at this present*, Alhvayis I hawe
wryttin to hir that I sail send it to hir at Mertimcs, althocht I acht nocht to pey
it. Sua I will besik your worschip to wryt to Alexander Lintoiin to or onie
wther ye pleass, to take ordour thainvith, that I or my cationer he nocht
registrat for that quhilk I hawe alreadie pey it. As to my selff, I cair littill for
it, & bot honest Walter Strachoun is so boistit he hir letters that he thinkis it will
do him harme, for he expectis no curtessie at hir haudis, quhairof I will wryt no
moir bot remit the samen to your awin wUdome aud discretioun.— Sua hoi ping
to heir schortlie from yow, I rest and sail ewer remain (uocht omitting my
humbill serwice and lowe to your lady and childring) as youris affectionat and
lowcing brother to serw vow to deathe, Sr. A. GORDOUNE.
Dundie, the xxi Juni 1628.
My lord, our nephew, hes takin my chastan naig from me, for he haid werie
iwill pennieworthe off the blake naig ye bocht to him.
To the richt worschipfull and my lowcing brother, Sir Robert Gordoune of that
ilk, knicht baronat, aud gentillman of his Maiesties priwie chalmer, these.
154. J. Cunixgham to Sir Egbert Gordon of Gordonstown, tutor of Suthcr-
" land— reporting the progress made by John, thirteenth Earl of Suther-
land', aud his brothers, at St. Andrews University. 10th July 1G28.
Right Worschipfull Sir,— I have reseawed twa of your worschipis letteris
since your worschipis goinge from Scotland,— one from William Gun, the
vther from George Ker in Edinburgh. I know your worschip longis to hear
from my lord, bot my lord and his loidschipis bretheren being in good
healthe, and we being famished in mone;. es as your worschip appointed, and
all matteris goinge weill, maid me the moir slow to wereatt to your worschip.
Nowhaveing the occasioun of this bearer (Mr. Charles Gcddes), I culd not
choose bott Iquent your worschip with my lord, his lordschip, and his lord-
schipis brethercu, ther good healthes, quhilk is as your worschip wald wisse
(praysed be God). Sir Alexander hes beiue heir att St, Androus, and hes beine
werie earnest with my lord to go northe, quhilk his lordschip hes refused to do,
1C2S.] J. CUX INGHAM. HO
knowing it was your \vors>chii<is will his lortlscLip sould not go northe this yeare ;
for his lordschip myndis not to stirre from St. Androus except ray Lord Elphin-
ston send for his lordschip. His worschip hes given my lord his chesnutt naige
quhilk his worschip coft two yearis since in Edinburgh, and hes desyred me to sell
the black your worship coft to his lordschip, and give the moneyes to my lord j
quhilk gif it please your worschip I will do, for he serves for no vse to my lord ;
for he rydes so hottlie that no man is able to sitt him. My lord, his lordschipis
foottmanis shoulder bone and choller bone ar broken with ane fall he gatt off
him. All the meatt I give him will uott mak him goodlyk, he is so thin, and 1
fear I gett nott halfe the moneyes your worschip gave for him, for none that
knowes him will buy him, and he is nott for ane markett, he is so old and his
teeth so evill, he will not suffer ane speare to com towardis him. I have reseawed
since your worschipis depairtoiu* from Alexander Lyntoun seavin hundrethe pundis,
and from M c Kay, in Mr. Robert Farquare his name, fyve hundrethe merkis, so
that we ar almost furnished quhill Lambas; quhairfor I intreatte your worschip
cause provyd my lord somquher, for befor August his lordschip will faill in
moneyes. As for my lord his lordschipis progresse in letteris, gife his lordschip
wald tak paines his lordschip wald do reasonablie, hot alwayes I hope his lord-
schip sail nott think his tyme eweiil spent heir, for his lordschip will be wery
ydle gif he do nott some good. Adam is to come to the colledge att Ahallowraes
althought not sufficient, hot he can nott stay behind his condisciples. George
(God willing) will be the scholler, Lett it please your worschip advertyse ws of
your worschipis dyett to Scotland, or gif we may exspecte your worschip comming
this yeir. Lett it please your worschip to give me your worschipis best advyse
in all thingis, and (God willing) I sail do my best indeaworis. So expecting your
worschipis answeres, I humblie tak my leiwe and restis ewer, your worschipis
obedient servitour, J. Cunynghame.
St. Androus, 10 Julij 1623.
To the right worschipfull Sir Robert Gordoun of that ilk, knycht barronett,
tutour of Southirland, ane of the gentlemen of his Majesties privie chamber,
this.
150 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1628.
155. Sir Alexander Gordon to Srn Eoukrt Gordon, his brother, — about
estate matters, and that their mother, the Countess of Sutherland, was on
her deathbed. 21st July 1G2S.
ElCHT worschipfull AND LOWEING BROTHER, — I receaweit twa letteris from yow
the last oik, the ane daittit at Lundon the 2S day of Maij, the wther therof the
20 day of Juni, quhairby I perceawe that ye ha we receaweit none of my letteris
sens Februari last, quhairof I merwcll, for I wryt to yow bothe in Marehe and \xx
the begining of Apryill befoir I went to Inueines ; and at my depairting with
my Lord Gordoune he vas not fullie resollwitt to hawe gone sowthe, and far lea
to hawe riddin to eowrt, wtherwayis I haid wryttin with his lordsehip. Sens
AVitsonday I wryt twess to yow, aueis from Aberdein and aues from Dundie,
quhairin I wryt off all pertieuleris and I daylie exspect the ansuer thairoff. Your
last twa letteris consists in twa pertieuleris, the ane concerning the Rossis bissines
anont Balnagownis moneis, and the wther anent the erectioun off Dornoch in a
brugh. As concerning Balnagowns moneis, Ritcalnie offerit the moneis to your
chalmerland at Witsonday last, hot Mr. Dawid Ross (as the ehalmerland schaweis
me) wald not consent to subscrywe the discharge, quhilk is said to be the
occasion of the not peyment of these moneis. All way is I remit the perticuler
informatioun thairoff to the chalmerland him selff, seing I was not in the cuntrey.
Your last letter quhilk I receaweit to be sent to Mr. Dawid Ross, I sent to him
with the eomissar, quhairby they mieht reasson that mater betuix them selffis, and
thairefter that I suld report bake ansuer to yow, conform to the eomissaris ansuer,
quhilk I exspect to get the morn (will God) in Dornoch ; and thairfrea wryt to
yow moir pertieulerlie thairoff.
As concerning the bissines of Dornoch, imraediatlie efter the resett of your
last letter I wryt for the goodeman of Skibo and his brother, Mr. Johne, for
yowng Iuebo and the eomissar, to quhom I impartit the bissines wppoun thair
aithis of secreeie, quha all war werie glaid thairoff. And efter adwyssment I hawe
wryttin sowthe to Alexander Lintoun with our bischop (quha was in Skibo
wppoun his returning hame sex day is sens), and hes eonferrit our marcat dayis
with the rest of the marcat fairis in this north partis, and aceordinglie hes
appointit the first mareat to be the twentie day of Juni, being Stt. Margrats day,
and the nixt the twentie day off Agust, being Stt. Bernardis day ; qnhilkis
ar befoir and efter Tainis marcatt, and the most commodious tymes for ws in the
1628.] Sill ALEXAXDER GORDOX OF XAV1DALE. 151
ycir, except Barsday, quliilk is the third and our ordincr marcat j and the olklic
rnarcat to bf on Setterday. This T wryt to Sanderis Lintoun, and desyirit him.
to fill wpe the signatour conform. ■ The goodeman of Skibo and Mr. John did
communicat that mater to our bischope, quha lies proraisit to be bothe secreit
thairin, as abo ane forderer thairoff, and withal! lies admonischit ivs of aue thing
quhairoff ye sail be war, to wit, that the said brughe be not subiect to taxations
or commissioners for the space off sewin yieris wntill it hawe sum begining
of abilitie ; quhilk I hoip ye will get susspendit for the said space in respect of
the earllis minoritie, and sik wther reasonabill eawsis as ye think fitt. I can wryt
no moir of this purposs. 1 reeeaweit all things from William Gun, quhilk yow
directit, and causit delywer to Alexander Monro that quhilk yc sent him.
My Lady, our mother, lies bein heawilie diseassit, and werie weak continuallie
thir sex olkis bygain, and nothing exspectit of hir ladysehip day He bot deathe. I
pray God send hir ane happie ending. It lies bein propoinit to me by sum, that
it war nccessar, quhenewer God callis hir, to giwe hir ane honorabill buriall, and
hawe sum of hir ladyschips most honorabill freindis thairat. I knaw not giwe this
cam of hir selff, nather did hir ladysehip impart the lyke to me; bot I ansuerit
that it vas hard to do, bothe inrespect that it wald nocht be done without gryt
expensis, as also Being it ras against the custome off onr howss, and for onie of
hir ladyschips awin meinis thair is anewehe ado with it to sustein hir hows, and
the necessiteis of hir ladyschips diseas, quhilk daylie drawis moneis from the
chalmerland. Tliairfoir, for my awin part, I will do nothing by your directioun,
except it be hir ladyschips speciall commandement on hir dead bed, quhilk I
think schoo will nocht wrge ; quhowsocver, Iat me hawe your will thairin in wryt
with the first oeeatioun, for it mey be schoo dry we aff quhill the fall off the leaff ;
and if God callis hir ladysehip befoir that, I will do my best to giwe hir lady-
schips buriall all the honour I can within the cuntrey, conform to our awin
accustomit form, and not els. Schoo lies desyirit me to remember hir ladyschips
blissing to your worsehip, your lady and childring, to whom ye sail remember my
serwice and loweing dewtie. All wther perticuleris I remit to my nixt letter the
morn in Dornoch, to quhilk and ewer I rest youris worse-hips most loweing brother
to serw yow to deathe, S::. A.'Cordoune.
Dunrobin, the xxj Julj 1G2S.
Adwerteis me of my Lord Gordons prociedings and interpryssis. I intreat
152 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1630.
yow cans satisfie Issobi.ll Bucliannan at Mertimes, and make me quyt of hir, for
I am daylie trublit with hir ; at least cans satisfie liir bygau annuallis, quhilk
wilbe four xx libis at Mcrtiines.
Adwerteis me quhatt is cum of Robert Gordoun, Craigtouns sone, ami his
companie, for John Oliferis sone his man is cum hame, and is ane fied serwand
in this parisin ; qnhow he cam away I knaw nocht. On Setterday last Alexander
John Kobson cam to his cuntrey, quhow he is cum away I knaw nocht; hot
I fear he wilbe ane seurdge to this cuntrey, tliairfoir adverteis me off your will
concerning him.
To the richt worschipfull and my loweing brother, Sir Robert Gordoun
of that ilk, knieht barronat, tutour of Suthirland, these.
156. Donald, Lord Reay, to Sir Alexander Gordon, — in reference to
assistance, and alleged plots .by Sir Robert Gordon. No date, but circa
1630. Copy.
WerIE HONORAKTLL and loweing wnekill, youris I receawit from Torris the 12.
It cam to rny hand on Fryday last at nicht hier, with ane letter from your sone
John from Tonng, that day I cam from the forrest from a tryst ; and my graith
not being cum, I haid not paper nor ink to wryt to your sone, bot sent the boy
presentlie backe to him all nicht, to desyr him to cum and speak me hier for a
nicht ; and till this nicht that the bearar cam to me, I hard no woord from your
sone, which mead me think the other boy was drouned. As for men to your
sone, I haid anes sum 30 in roll that we micht want, and wold do any companie
goode, and I thocht to hawe sent my sone Hew with them. Efter meiting with
my freindis, they all in ane woice absolutlie hes refusit to suffer any men go out
of this cuntrey, till they sie the ewent of thir ploitts hatched be your brother,
Sir Robert, for all our r wings (as is ailed geit) ; and I am sorie ther is too mutch
ewidencie therof. I am bot ane, and lett newer the earth bear me, bot I wold do
for your sone as for my owin ; bot I pray yow, wnekill, exenis me that I most
now follow pairt of the adwyyce of them that thinks to die for my defens, and
in defens of ther fathers landis. I am sorie that I know not in whom to trust,
my owin wnekill betrasing me. The world wold not make me beliwe it, iff I
haid not sein his hand. The particulars war this. I was adwerteisit that the
1G32.] DOXALD, LOUT) HEAT. 153
letters I sent to the cimsell and to sum cunstdlouris, being my freindis, pairt war
wplioldin and pairt wTyttin ower, and my hand eunterfitt, and eloisit with my
owin seall which I sent with "William Iunes, yit I did not aceuis Sir Robert
theroff at Dornoch, beeaus I sent the letters with "William limes, and not with
him ; yit in Toung I eausit Sir John Gordoim and Robert Monro of Assint to
aecnis Sansyd. He first fred Sir Robert, bot in end eonfessit Sir Robert maid
him do it, and produeeit a dracht or coppie of a letter wryttin all be Sir Roberts
hands, which letter Sir Robert, as he alledged, maid him wryt ower and eunterfit
my name to it. Then they elosit wp and delyweri't it to the euusall as from me,
a letter that eonfessit moir than Maistres Herison hir self alledgeit. What moir
he eonfessit than Sir John will show yow, and tyme will try and show the rest.
miserabll world ! quher ther is no faith, trust nor credit, to take a man his
meinis, and then betrey him. The Lord forghve them. What culd the cun&all
do bot as they did, haweing my letter as thair warrand. I know yow nor no
honest hartt will newer beliwe ther is so mutch falshead in man.
This is the trew coppie of my Lord off Reay his letter to me so far as con-
cerns your worsehip, quhilk I thocht nocht nowayis pleasant as will appear by my
ansuer to him giwe it pleas him to produce it.
Indorsed : The coppie of my Lord of Reay his letter to Sir Alexander
Gordonn.
1.57. Sir Alexander Gordon to Sir Robert Gordon, — regretting the
redemption of his lands by the Earl, and that he was going to Ireland.
21st July 1G32.
RlCHT WORSCHIPFULL AND LOWEING BROTHER, — I receawcit ane letter of youris
heir at my bakeeuming from the north, daittit the xj of June, the morn efter my
arryvell heir. J. Ettien, my Lord Gordons man, went to Inghind onknowin to
me, wtherwayis I haid wryttin with him. He is returnit, bot broeht no woord
from yow to me. I spoke my Lord Gordoune anent the French hissines, who
assuiris me it will go on, and dowts not bot my bissines also will sneceid ; yit I
sie all is oneertan, so we must abyid tymes in sik bissines. As to your fyftein
libs. Stirling, ye wryt ye payed to Mr. Dunbar, I shall caus pay them; bot as I
U
154
FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS.
[1632.
wryt befoir, giwe T receawe no benefitte, giwe ye can with Mr. Dunbaris adwyis
moire any other that gets benefite to pay the samcn, I dowt not bot ye will do
your best. Giwe not, as T wryt first, it is no reasone ye shuld pey them, nather
did I e^er think so mutch as to wse yow so for your goodewill. My going
north hes hinderit me mutch, and I hawe done no goode, bot spent my meinis
and my tyme iyedillie, for I culd get nothing done with my brother soiie,
the earll. He cam heir acht dayis befoir me, and efter long hard dealing, the
nicht befoir he cam away, he pvomiat me befoir the chalmerland to susspend the
redemptioun of my landis in Strathwlzie for fywc yeiris, bot that he behuiffit to
redeim Achindean to be ane mainis for him selff, quhairof I socht bot one yeiris
susspentioun, seing I haid sold that yeiris crop befoir hand, and than his lord-
schip snld hawe all my landis about Dornoch on goode conditions ; quhilk his
lordschip said he wold adwyis on, and giwe me his ansuer heir in the sowth,
quhairon we both condiscendit and restit. At my heircurning (quhair I hawe
uow bein thir achtein dayis bygain) he held me still in hoip and postpoinit me,
till Tyisday last I aiming out of Seton socht his lordschips wter ansuer befoir my
lady, quhair I gat ane nolumus. Than I bcggit that mutch curtessie of his lord-
scliip and my lady, to continow me all for one yeir only from Witsonday nixt,
that I micht prowyid ane pairt for my moneis, and schew his lordschip your
letter, and whow materis war going on, yit wold no way is grant me that mutch
fawour. So that now I find it to be trewth that I wryt to yow befoir, for Craig -
toune was redeimit at Witsonday last, and his lordschip lies payed me my haill
monies, and takin my richt in his owin handis. And seing my burding is gryt I
will lat his lordschip go on as he pleassis, and let the littill stok I haid on his
landis go to pay my detts, ami shift for myselff as God will giwe me grace; for
Nawidell is not abill to sustein ane honest man thair, so it shall pas with the
rest quhen William Dick is payed. But I think I mey say it without offence
that thair was never any man so onnaturallie delt withall for goode serwice.
Allwayis I thank God for all, and dowts not bot he will hawe respect to
my wsadge. And ye know this was the thing I ewer fearit, albeit ye was still
angrie at me that I suld think it, bot now I find it. God grant me patiens, seing
I hawe no recowrs now bot only to God, for I sie it is not to man to lean to
mortall men, bot as he seis; and I know if ye war als far in [his] lordschips reverens
ye wold find no better quarters, bot it is anewch that I am so far in his reverens.
God giwe him grace to do his owin weill. I shall cair the les, for I am not the
first eadcnt off ane hous that hes bein put to his shift, albeit the first so ongrait-
fullie wsit. And I am pcrsuadifc never twa lied lea benefit and moir trubill and
hinder. God luik to all. 1 can wryt no moir of this mater, bot am sorie I hawe
sik occatioun to trubill yow with sik ane subiectu As to that bissincs of my Lord
of Ormontlus I eau wryt nothing of it wutill I go to Iyrland aud try maters as
they go. Nather ean I end any thing wntill my Lord of Thirles be in Iyrland.
AVhen ewer ye wryt to me, send the letters ather to Monuiehan or to Clunas,
quhair Sir John Wishart will inform yow quhair to direet them, for I dwell now
in Cluincalge, quhilk was Sir John Wisharts land of aid, and he was styillit
thairof, as I dowt not bot he will show yow. This is all I hawe for the presentt,
so my lowe and serwice remembred to your lady and ehildring. — I rest and shall
ewer remain, youris loweing brother to serw yow to death,
Sr. A. Gordoune.
The chahnerland hes bein the onlie man that hes bein ane freind in my abscns
to all my men and serwandis. Thairfoir wryt to him aud thank him for it, and
desyir him to eontiuow so.
Edinburgh, the 21 of Juli 1632.
I mak away to Inland, God willing, on Monnonday nixt.
Sir, iff yow think it fit, yow mey wryt to my lord and my lady to continow
this bissines of myin for ane yeir, wntill I prowyid sum pairt for my monies ; so
do thairin as yow shall think best. Bot if yow wryt and receawe bake ansuer, faill
not to adwerteis me thairoff with all the diligens yow can.
To the rieht worsehipfull and my werie loweing brother, Sir Robert Gordoune •
of that ilk, knieht barrouat, and gentillman of his Maiesteis priwie chalmer, at
cowrt in England, these.
158. Colonel John Monro of Obsdell to Sir Robert Gordon of Gordons-
town, — giving accounts of the war in Germany. 3d August 1632.
Worschipfull Schir, — I reeewit twa letter is of youris, ane dyrect to Scotland
befoir my wayeuming, the wther the nynt of June fra Grenewiche, schawing of the
resett of ane packet of myne. I dout befoir now bot your honour hes resawit ane
156 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1632.
wther jialcket of myne with ane letter of ray sones with ane hill of exchange of
aurhtene Uundreth and fourtie rex dolouris, quhilk ane EngHs merchant, callit
Anthone Bedingfild, in Hambruehp, resawit and asignit ane merchant in Lundone
callit Mr. Robert Lowther, merchant, to pay the samyn, qnhilk I refer to my
former letteris, and to my sones letter. I am glaid of the Lady Stewart marage
with the tressawrer sone, gif it will helpe your honour in atteiueing your priwie
seales. I am sorie of my Lord Ilaes miscarage •; God draw him to ane trew sence
of his bygane miscarage. Thair is no good heir for him nor for no st[r]anger, for
we wilbe eompellit to Ieiwe this st-rwice ; for nur masteres fortunes drawes haile
Germany to serwe him almaist for noicht that we ar noicht able to subsist. \our
nephew is weile quha wilbe ane sogour, but can noicht gett him to learne any
langage, nor will newer learne amongest the Seottes. Quhairfoir my opinione war
that he sonld be dereet to France for to learne. the Frensche townge, quhairbe he
mieht sehone cum to proferment ; and without the langage he will noicht cum to
preferment, quhilk particular I refer to your honouris eousideratioun and adver-
teisment. As to my regiment thair was thre eompanes of thame takin prisoneris
with Captan Sinclar, quha is now releiwit. As to Robert Gordowne he cam
noicht with ws, hot ane Johne Gordowne, ane brother of his, quha was takin be
the enemie, quha is now releiwit and is with ws. Thair is twa liftennantis, Geoirge
Monro and William Monro, and thre handseynies, Hew Monro and Androw
Monro, and Thomas LIddell, prisoneris as yit, quhowm I hoipe sehoirtly to gett
Telewit. Papenhames airmie is merehit ower the AVeser, since the quhilk tyme we
hawe takiu it, thre eastellis, to wit, Stewrwalt, Marinburge, and Kalenberge, and
the towne of Duderstat, quhair Captane Beatoune, Doctor Beatounes sone, was
killit, ane hoipfull brawe gentleman. Papenhame and we is thoicht to meitt
sehoirtly quhair the ewent will try. The Kinges airmie vpoun the Ryne remanes
wictoriously. The King liimselff lies re*eirit out of Bairenkmd, and hes leift all his
garisounes weile prowydit, and is cum to Newrenberge, quhair he hes belegert
him selff. The Dwik of Fredland, "Walstene, is at Bambriche and thairabout,
within thre or four myle to the King, gadering all his forces from all corneres, ane
gryt airmie. Bot the King will behoild him, and will permitt tyme and wether
and wittuales fecht first with him, and thairefter try him as he findis tyme. Quhilk
airmie if it be defeitt, the Emperiour hes losit his pairt of Germany, for thay
find exeep thay defeitt the King anes thay can noicht prewaile in respect the King
hes the haile townes and passes vpoun all the riweres. Bot I hoipe with the nixt
1032.] JOILV, THIRTEENTH EARL OF SUTHERLAND. 157
occasioun or the last of October to gif your honour moir particular accounpt of
th'ir eftairis, for now is our herwest. Wissing to wnderstand of all yowr particular
newes, and sail do goodwill to mend my fawlt as occasioun sail scrwe. — Commit-
ting yowr honour, lady, and childerin to the protcctioun of the Almichtie, I rest,
excuising me at the Erie of Sutherlandis handis in noicht wryting for feir of
big packetis, quhilk will noicht be resavit, youris honouris ewer assuret to pour,
J. Monro of Obsdell.
Duderstat, the 3 of Agust IG32.
Lat me heir of the Erie Seafuirt hailth and releasmcut, and quliat appeirance
of Xowa Scotia or of Ocheltre and of wther occurantis.
To the rycht worschipfull Scliir Robert Gordowne, knicht baronat.
150. John, thirteenth Earl of Sutherland, to Sir Robert Gordon, —
arrival of goods at Prestonpans. 22d September 1C32.
Eight "worschipfull and loving vucle, — I receavid your last, which was deated
from Salisbury the 3 of this instant, the 20, wherbe I perceave that myne was not
then come to your bands, which was deated in August and sent vp in my Lord
Gordoun his companie, in which I did wryt to yow of all my affaires in particular
as yow desyred. Yow wryt to me lykwayes that yow haue sent doune the rest
of our grathe to Prestoune Panes in on Greirsone his sheipe. I haue receaved
with your letter four severall nots all concerning our grathe, one of debursments,
one of pareells, the vpholsters bill, and a particular note of the furuitour of the
great bed. The boy who broght me your letter showes me that the schipe goods
and all ar saiflie come home, uherof I am glaid. seing shortlie ther is a craire
of David Murrayes going to Southerland, so that I hope all my gratli shall be as
shone at home as myself. Yow wryt that yow wold wish to be with me when
I settcll with my Lord Reay. Trewlie I sould be glaid of it, if it wold not be
troublesone to yow. If yow had anie bussines of your owen about that tyme to
drawe yow doune I sould be glaid of it. If not, I wold rather that yow sould
wryt be some sure berar, if ther be anie misterie in the bussines, which will be a
great deall esier for yow then to enterpryse such a great journey in the winter.
Since I sent my last with my Lord Gurdoune I have mtad William Dick con-
15S
FAMILY AND DOMESTIC LETTERS. [103
tent to tak this yeirs wictull and salmcnd in satisfactionc of the seaven thowsant
merks I did owe him, so that my eationers wer content, to which I hope they
will not be awerse. AVe ar com this far on our journey to Southcrland, and haue
bene here this fortnight, onlie attending our horses that ar to come from the north,
which we expect daylie. I thank vow most hartlie for the paines and caire yow
haue taken in our bussines, and if thcr be anie thing wherin I can doe yow pleasur
in thir pairts, advertise me, and yow shall find me ever radie to remainc, your
most aflectionat nephew to serwe yow, J. E. Southerlasd.
Drummond, the 22 of September 1C32.
Let this remember my lowc and service to my ladie, your bed-fellow, and
showe hir that we longc till we haue hir to be our nighbour in Ros, or in some
other pairt of Scotland.
To the right worschipfull my loving uncle, Sir Robert Gordonne of that ilk,
knight baronet, these.
For the delywerie and reset off all the graith.
100. Colonel Robert Monro to Sin Robert Gordon of Gordonstown,—
giving an account of the war in Germany. 31st October 1G35.
PtlCHT HOXOURABILL — I resavit yonris and acordinge to your desyr I directit
your lettere to Colonell Goun, from qnhom I hawe no word this four raounth.
The armie now eome from Sprnse I think he be com with. And haweing laittlie
" haid a victorie in our armie I wald not owersce my dewtie in makinge your
worschip participant of our gude furtun aganis that perfidious man, the Duck of
Saxone, quha hes prowene vngraitt to his countrie, the cronne of Sweddane,
aud to our religione in Germanie, excludeing thame out of his dishonorable paeee
maid at Prague. I hope, as the Lord hes begune to puuisch his ingratitude, he
will eontinowe till he in ende male him see his errouris. I doubt not bot your
worschip hes seine the treatteise and conditiones of peace he offerit to the cronne
of Sweddane, wiche wer so dishonorable that thai wer not worthie to be hard of,
mutehe les to be embraeet, tendinge to 2 pointes,— to give ower all places within
the empyre they haid wine with the sworde; secundo, to reteire ther armis
out of Dentchlaud, vtherwys he wald convoy them away perforce; and on thir
1635.] COLONEL ROBERT MONRO. 159
conditiones he wald give some content to the Deutches that serwifc the croune of
Sweddone, exrh'.leinge the Sweddanes and our natione from any coritentement.
Thir propositions wer so detaistet that thai could not he ueill hard ; yet his
policie was so greatt that in the tym of tlie treattie he debauschet the inaist pairt
of the colonellis of horss aud fuutt of our armic that thai said thai wald not fecht
against him, nether wald thay queytt ther schairges. The directour persaveing
tlier treatcherous meineinge, by adwyse of our eouutricmeu, reteirit in the nicht
from our armie to Uismair on the sea syd convoyetby Generall Maiour Leslie and
vther omcieris of our natione, and that counninglie escappeing the Saxones
ambusches led for him. Your worschip may judge in quhatt estait the croune of
Swcddane haid stouid wnto if they haid got tin him. Our Deutch colonellis
persawing the directour to be gone, being frustrat of thcr intentiones, wer so
conimowet that uothinge wald content thamc accept the Felt-marschall Banneir
wald lay tham in quarterns to such tym as thay micht treatt with the cluck fur
contentement to thame selffis, wich the felt-marschall yeeldit into to put tham in
quartern. Being in doubt of thcr fidelitie he sent thuis he mistrustit farrest from
him in quarteris, and thois he reposit maist vnto as the Lowetennent-General
Kiwane and our natione and the Sweddanes and Fiunes, thes he quarterit neir
him selff and the few Deutches that he thoucht trewest. The Saxone persaweing
this divydit his armie in 3, of intentione to fall on Kiwane to cutt him of and his
folks, bot Pawane preweinet him and breack vp be tym, and mairtchet to the
ElfF syd, quhair he was in saifftie till Banneir joynett with him. The Saxone,
disapointit of this intentione, maid a schippe bridge ower the Etff at Damittis,
bein" a strong pass, and a castell quhahin was one Captane Jonstouue, a Scottis-
raan that behawit him selff weill. Banneir, finding the Saxone had crossit the
ElfF, feirin^e he sould come betuixt him and the Spruse armie, commandit out
Generall Pa wane with 1200 horss and 700 foutt to reeognosce his designe, not
"iweing him schairge to fecht at his comeinge to Damittis. lie faud the Felt-
Marschall Bauttisch haid with him bot 7000 foutt without hors to secound his
foutt, haweing lefl't the duik with the quholl cawallerie on the vther syd of the
Elff. Tawane, with gude command and fortunat conduct, resolvit ones to try
quhidder thai wald fecht or not. The enemees musqueteires being ill commandit,
gawe a full salve of musquettes on Pawane, being standing ferme in battel],
resolvit to abyd the first persuitt, and seing tham ha we no reserwe of schoatt, he
schairnt ther foutt in 8anck, wane and reire, puttinge tham in disorder. The
160
FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS.
[1035.
ranches broken, the victorie was certane, for thai haid no peickmcn to male a
,tand to recollect ther muiqueteires, notli«r haid thai a reserwe of schoat and
tyra thai gait not to scl.ai.-ge aguine. A thousand wer takcnc that , we u£
1000 killit 500 drounet for feir, and 3000 taken prisoner. Thei Felt-.Maisc ran,
BautiU being seasit on by a reut-maister, having killit the reut-urarster,
horse he lefft hfs belt and sword, and so escappet. Tins all was done n> s.cht of
the dock, being on the vther syd, quha immediate reteiri, ™V££
of 300 horse of onres forgathering with 1500 horse of the Saxone, J. t «eache
pairtie was forcit to fecht or dronne, and focht so werll that the 1d00 wer put
[o flieht 3 reut-maisteris takene of thevis, and 1 standards. Thus far of the
Saxons misfortune; the Lord continow it, and the Lord oppeno ther eyes hat
Jucht Lcurre to'see him punischet for his treatcheric to the Pnnce Elector,
and his famile. For my pairt I wald willinglie sacrifice ray bln.de to he a«endg.
o„h ra, aweingeprowerra so vngratt to hira of worthie raeraone tha lost h,
WIT for his freedome. As occasione offeris I will acquaint your worsclnp of our gude
fortune wiche I intrcatt your honour to participatt to our gude frend s
Millie to gude Sehir Itoiard Pam.nerne, ray noble freind, and patron, to the
Jde cause, for we haid newer a better quarrel, as we hawe aga.nst the Saxone
that wald ouine our veligione in Germanic by his perfidmus mard peace for Ins
Itrin araes- our God, I lope, will plauge him, althoucht man sou d owersre h.m
Mvnelwe Mr George, laid a greatt mynd to hawe quatt Ins burck and to
ME -rres, bo°t his freindU being against it, 1 hawe sent Inra to Lerdene
toT- hi. I* in the lawes, and to be acquaintit with the qveenes scluldrern .
Ill wischeinge the God of gudnes to perpetuat r^^^^
your ;ser want to power,
Hambourge, the last of October 1635.
Thai say the Bischope of St. Andrews is weack. I wisch your honour wer
effeetuai Id if ther be any employment thatt way, your worsch.p wald mynd
mv Lord of Carleill that I sould not be forgottene.
7 T„ his noble and worthie freind Schir Eobert Gordone, gentleman of hrs
Majesties priwie schaluiar, thais.
Indorsed: Colonell Monro; General Riffen, rece.ved Februar 1636.
Answered. ________ —
1635.] CAPTAIN ADAM GORDOX OF KILCOLMKILL, 161
101. Captain Adam Gordon of Kilcolmkill to Sir Robert Gordon of
Gordonstown,— acknowledging assistance from the Earl and Countess of
Sutherland in levying men for service in Sweden, lltli November 1G35.
Copy.
I thank God the Earle of Soutlierland and his lady schew me all kyudnes and
com tessies that I myght requyre at this tyme from them. For haid not the earle
wry tin to the Clianceler off Scotland, and to the Earle of Win ton, and to the
Earle of Traquhair, and to the Cleirk Registrar, and to all the rest of his lord-
ships friends that are in the cousell, I would not be suffered to taik any men
from Scotland this yeir be reasone off the proclamacione that was last against
levying off men. His lordship has prevailed so with them that I gat a permissione
suhscreyvitt with fyve counseleris hands for myself, wyfe, children and familie
to pass where we pleased, and a warrand for any skipper to trausport us without
incurring any danger thereby. His lordship was gude to me in all uther my
desyris, and if I pleased to accept thereof his lordship offered me sum prest men,
bot (I thank God) men was so willinge to go with me that I neided not preass
any, yit nevertheles I praiss him for his gudewill. I hope in God his lordship
sail liaif no causs to regret for any gudenes he will doe me, for, God willing, ye
sail hear off my death befor ye sail heir off my shaminge my name. All my
friendis in generall was very kynd to me, yit none helped me with so much as
one souldyour. I thank my freiuda for their kyudnes, and my money is for my
souklyours. But God I thank for all. Under God I aecompt my lord and
your worship my pattrones. My lord hes wrytten to Sir David Drummond,
General-Major to General Baneir his army, to Colouell Gordoun and to
Colonell Gryrne in my favor. Therfor I pray you would wryt to Colonell
Gordoun, to Colonell Gryme, and to Colonel Kar, giving them thanks for
their kyndnes bygone, and hartilie commending ine to them in tyme cominge,
bot in speciall wryt to Colonell Gordoun very lovinglie and ernestlie, since it
is under his regiment I am bestowed for the present. I pray your worship
remember me to your lady and children, and lit not your worship think
bot I wryt many tymes, although ye resaived none since I went first from
Sutherland. So, wissing God to bless your worship and all yours, I rest ever
x
162 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1636.
and sail remayne your worships ever trew and constant servant to the death
to serve you, Ga. Adah Gordoun of Kilcolmkill.
Gottenburg, the levint Xovember 1C35.
Iff your worship wryt to me, direct 3 our letters to Mr. Wame, agent for
Ingland in Hambourghe, and desyre him to direct the same [to] Colonel Gryme,
who lies grot correspondence with him.
I pray your worship wryt thanks to Mr. Warnc for his kyndnes shewn to
me. 1
162. Lady Henrietta Stuart, Marchioness of Huntly, 2 to Sir Robert
Gordon, — as to the wrongs suffered by her husband, and the home-
bringing of her son. 12th February 1G3G.
Eight worstiipfull and loving cousing, — Being informed be Mr. Robert Adam-
sone of your love and affectione towardis my lord, my husband, and his childrein, 1
could not choose bot rander yow thankis for the same, hoiping for the continou-
ance therof. God knawis what vrongs my lord, my husband, hes susteaned be
the malitious attempts of his enimeys, which war teadious to wreat. So I will
remitt thame to the declaratioun of the berar wha lies rcccawit ane letter of
exchange of twantie tua thowsand pnndis for to bring honie my sonc to court,
yit I knaw it will not be anuche to defraye his wther dwbtis in France. Wherfor
1 Memorandum on another paper : — Adam saifly with his men at Gottenburg, in the
Gordon of Kilcomkill, having gone into kingdonie of Sweden, the sextday of November
Germanie, tbe yeir of God 1G3-J, with Sir 10,15. This Colonell Alexander Gordoun is
Hector Monro of Fowles, and after the death aonne of on Jhon Gordoun, who was the
of Fowles, serving in the Swedish army sonne of William Gordoun, bishope of Aber-
under the command of Colonell Alexander deen. Colonell Alexander Gordoun is in
Gordoun, he was advanced this ycir (1635) service with the Swedes,
to be a captane in the said Colonell Gordoun's
regiment ; and thereupon he returned into 2 This lady was the eldest daughter of
Scotland, and having levied a eompanie of Esme, first Duke of Lennox. She left Scot-
able and lustie men in Southerland, he land ou account of her religion, and died in
shipped with them at Cromartie, and arryved France in 16-42.
1636.] LADY BEXrjETTA STUART, MARCIIIOXESS OF IIUXTLY. 163
I will intrate }'ow to solicite our noble freinds, speciallie the Duck of Lenox and
the Duches of Richmont, for to interceed at his ^Majesties hands for to obteen
speedie papnent of thease money.es dew to him be his Majestic. So not doubting
of your cair hcirin as ye shall haue me to remain,
Cannoget, 12 Febniar 1636.
For the right worshipfull my loving cousing, Sir Robert Gordone, knicht
barronet, gentleman of his Majesties privie clialmer.
163. Sir Alexander Gordon of Xavidale to Sir Robert Gordon, his brother,
— to speak with William Dick about his debts, etc. 23d May 1630.
EiCHT worschiitull AND LCSYEING BROTHER, — I hoip be now yow ar in Scott-
land, or werie nier wnto it ; so finding the occatioun of Mr. James Cuninghame
his sowth going, I thocht goodc to send this letter to Edinburgh to attend your
worschipis thaircuming. I can hier no woord off my sone his bissines, quhilk
will be to my gryt preiudice iff it go backe ; quhairfoir I earnestly request yow to
be earnest with Mr. Adarae Heapbrownethairanent, that I mcy be suir what mey
be exspectit thairin, and that ye adwerteis me thairoff with the first occatioun.
Ye will know best your sellff what is liklie to cum off the marquis, our chieff, his
bissines, and I hoip we sail be moir fullie rcsolhvit thairoff when it pleassis God
we sie yow. I will intreat yow to heast yow north for the Laird off Assint his
bissines. I hawe bcin at tuo trysts of his with Scaffort and his freindis within
thir ten daps, and thair is no renitdd but he must sell at this AYitsonday cum
ane yeir, and Seaffort will show no curtessie except he be secuirit of his moneis
164 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1636.
befoiv Lamhes nixt, qnhilk is conform to our condiscending. I will wryt no moir
of this bHine^ seing vnhnn sapkntl m! t>f. Assint lippins when your worschip
dims that ye will do for him als for as ye can without your owin prciudice. 1
intreat your worschip to speak William "Dick and show him he salbe com-
pleitlie payit off me, principall and interest, at Lambes when I go to Iyrland.
The way I intend to pay him is to sattill with my lord, our nc[p]hew, for my lyff-
rent off Euifi's, wheroff wc hawe spokin sumthiug already ; bot I continow the
mater wntill it pleass God that your worschip cum to this cuntrey. Allwayis your
worschip sail show William Dick that I only stay hicr attending the ewent of ray
sone his bissines, and that when wc go sowth at anie tyme betuix this and
Lambes (seing Linger I can not stey) that he salbc contentit both in principall
and annuall. The amiuall is but sens Mutinies last, quhilk than I directit sowth
to him and he refnisit it. I dout not bot one woorcl of your mowth will giwe
him content for that space. Your worschip pall speak the lyke to John Rind for
that I rest him, and, will God, they sail all be contentit befoir I leawe them,
altho I hawe no moir behind; for when ane honest man hes creditt he hes
anewch and will not wantt. T am sorie that notthelcs of my painis betuix
Frcndracht and his lady that maters is liklic again to fall worss betuix them.
Allwayis I hawe wryttin to Frendracht, be the earll our nephewis adwyis, that
when your worschip cums we will take all sum cowras betuix them, for shoo is
ather ane werie iwill woman, or els shoo is michtilie wrougit and abusit. So ye
sail try all ye can wntill it pleas God we all meitt, that than we mey adwyis on
the best cours we can to satill maters. I will wryt no moir off this purpois. I
besik yow, schir, heast yow north als shoone as yc can, for ye will find anewch to
do both that concerns your sellff and ws your freindis.
I hawe wryttin to William Dick and to John Rind anent my owin bissines,
quhilk I request your worschip to backe. Remember my service to my lady
marquis, and show hir ladyschip that I will hawe one at hir ladyschip shortt efter
the terme, giwe I go not sowth than my sellff, and that the deley of my sone his
bissines was the caus I did nut sie my lord and hir ladyschip long or now. I
can wryt no moir at this tyme. So exspecting your heastie heir aiming, or short
adwerteisment, I rest, as I sail ewer remain, youris worschipis most affectionat
and loweing brother to serw yow to death, Sr. A. Gordoune.
The Earll of Sutherland, my Lord of Reay, and I, with other freindis, con-
163C] JOIIX, THIRTEESTU EARL OF SUTI1ERLAXD. 1G5
weinit at Tain the tent of this month for sailing of the Laird of Fowl Ha his
est eat, wherin the gowernment of the esteat was in question betuix Obstell and
Limlair; quhilk all the freindis in one wocc offerrit to Obstell with Limlairs
consent, yit Obstell rcfuiasit the samen. So we all in one woice fand Limlair so
reasonabill in all things that we hawe layed tlic binding of all wppoun Limlair
wntill it pleas God the chyld be fortein yeiris of adge. So I besik yow, what-
ewer ye heir of Limlair to the eontrar do not beliwe it, scing Limlair hes giwein
contentment to all the freindis for the weall of the nous of Fowllis.
Dornoch, this 23 of IMaii, 1636.
To the richt worschipfull and my lowcing brother, Sir Robert Gordoun of
that ilk, knicht and barronat, one of his Maiesteis priwie cuusall of Scott-
land, these.
1G4. John, thirteenth Earl of Sutherland, to Sir Robert Gordon, —
as to the chaplaincy of Kinaldy, etc. 14th June 1G3G.
Eight WORSCHIPFULL and loving vncle, — I receawit your last deatted from Edin-
burgh the 28 of Mail, showing of your saiffe arywell ther, wherof I am most glaid.
I did wryt particularly to yow with j\Ir. James. I intreat yow to sie, if the
Iiishope of Cathnes be in the toune, that he may subscry we ane blancke presenta-
tione of the cheaplandrie of Kinanldy, which I think is all one to him, seing he
mustconfirme some mau, so that 1 mayadvyse at your heir comming whose name
to insceavt therin, for it is als lawfull to inscert ane laicke as ane churchemans name
therm in the presenter his optione. I hope also, if yow stay anie tyme in the
toune, yow will cause have ane caire that Alexander Chisolmes suspentioues be
discussed, as 1 did wryt to yow before. \Ve in this countrey ar mightily wrongit
for laick of ane sutting commisshar, wherfor if yow can find the meines to make
him receid heir at the cathed[r]all churtche, I assure yow it wold doe the countrey
great good. I infcreat yow also make William Dick his bargan, accoumpts, anuall-
rents, and all other things cleir betuixt ws, for he threttens me alwayes with
paying of falizes for the last yeir, albeit I did pay waist fraught to his sehippers
thankfully heir, which I am confident I ought not to pay, thinking that alwayes
the best of my bargane was that I was freie of falzies. Alexander Lintoune hes
William Gray his tickets vpun the recept of 28 barralls of salmond and grilses.
ldi
FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS.
[1G3C.
This is all that is to be deduced since your owen fitting of accoumpts with him
in my name, as for this yeirs wietunll, soing I have not yeit receavit his schippers
dischairges from my chalmerlaud. I think yow must continowe that till your
bakgoing seing ther is nothing to be did ncit till Mertimes, I hope George, my
brother, will come home in your owen companie. I shall have ane cair to
keipe grasse and some eates for your horses, bot laick of raine and thir winds
makes the grasse bracke out exceiding sloly, and as it bouds out it withers. So
till meitting and ever I shall al waves remaine, your most affectionat nephewe to
serwe yow, J- E. Southerland.
Dounrobin, the 14 of Juuii, 1G3G.
To the right worschipfull and my loving vncle, Sir Kobert Gordoune of that
ilk, knycht baronet, and one of his Majesties privie chalmer in ordiner, these.
1G5. Sir Alexander Gordon to Sir Robert Gordon, his brother, — as to
Lord Reay, the Earl of Seaforth, the sale of Assynt, etc. 5th July 163G.
RlCHT woRSCHirFL'LL and loweing brother, — I receawit ane short letter of youris
out of Edinburgh efter your arrywell thair, and be that letter I onderstand that
ye did not receawe my letter quhilk I send befoir YVitsonday with Mr. James
Cuninggham to attend your arrywell thair ; and I merwell I newer receawit ony
woord from yow sens than. I hawe sein your letter sent to my Lord of Reay,
and I wish ye follow your best freindis adwyee befoir ye end your bargan. I
wold hawe yow to expeid your afTairis thair with expeditioun, and to heast yow
heir in tyme, for fear ye cum too leatte for that bissines was in handis betuix yow
and my Lord off Reay ; yit iff ye cum within tuentie dayis all mey be in tyme
adwysit wppoun and accordingly resollwitt I remit this to your owin goode
consideratioun seing yow know my meining. My Lord off Seaffortt lies bein
dealling hard with the Laird off Assint thir sex or aucht olkis by gain wherwith
I hawe bein gryttumlie trublitt, and can mend my sellff littill. I grant Assint
hes playit the foolle to him sellff, and albeit the Earll off Seaffortt haid intendit
no actioun against him, he must sell Assint befoir he pay him his reall debtts,
quhilkis can not be refusit. I know he hes intendit improbatioun and reductioun
of his infeftment and ane declaratour wppoun the gift of his lyffrent and escheatt,
1036.] SIE ALEXANDER GOIiDOX OF XAYIDALE. 1G7
and nullitie for not payment of the few dewteis ; bot 1 think these will not woork
for sVs i'*,"n.-on? [a-] m* yryttm to "Walter Hay. So giwe ye rcceawe this letter in
Edinburgh befoir your north aiming I request yow to take the painis to speak
"Walter Hay heirancnt, seing I hawe wryttin to him to adwyis with yow, and to
show yow of all things we hawe wryttin to him thairanent. The Earll of Sea-
fibrtt is riddin sowth, and wryt to me he wold continow any legall procedour
against Assint till his lordschips return, quhilk letter is sent to Walter Hay with
the rest. I can wryt no moir of this bissines, but rcinitis it to "Walter Hay his
declaratioun thair, and to our owin meitting heir. I request yow to speak to
William Dick and John Riud, and desyir them to hawe patiens, wntill yow and
I return, and, will God, they salbe contentit and will not be loisseris in aue pennie.
I am sorie for the Marquis of Huntlie his death. God send his sonc weill home.
Gett woord when the buriall will be, that iff it be befoir yow and I leawe Scottland,
we mey prowyid for our mnrning clois. I besik yow be at sum point with Mr.
Adam Heabroun concerning my sone his bissines, for I am aschamcit it cam to sik
ane point, and than to cast aff in thair owin defalltts ; for now the yeir is passing
by, and I hawe steyit long anewch uppoun that bissines already, and longer I can
not stey, and giwe I go away it will not be so shoone done as it acht to be. So
I desyir nothing but ane ansuer, that if that misgiwe, my sone mey luik for sum
other way. So remitting all things to your wisdome and diligens, and intreatting
yow to heast yow hear, I rest, and sail remain, youiis affectiouat and loweing
brother to serw yow to death, Sr. A. Gordoune.
Dornoch, tbe 5 of Julj, IG36.
Sir, efter the wrytting of this letter, Mr. John Gray and the chalmerland cam
to me and desyhit me for to adwerteis your worschip that all Murray men ar
chardgeit for conceillit moneis, and that thir cuntrey men ar to be chardgeit to
that samen effect : Thairfoir intreatts your worschip to gett ane commissioun to
take all our cuntrey mens aithis heir in this cuntrey ; otherwayis it will be ane
gryt cross to this cuntrey meu if they be forcit to ryid sowth for that bissines ;
so hoips your worschip will be cairfull thairoff as ye lowe the weill of the cuntrey.
I intreat yow, sir, caus bring me or send me with this bearar als mutch gray
fyin Ingliss cloith as wilbe me ane ryidding coitt, with sillwer leas and buttons,
and bcasse to serw conform to the fasioun, and I sail satisfie your man at his
1G8 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1G3G.
heir euming; for I am altogidder desolat and can get mine to by in the north,
and am loith to begin new eompts with John liiud.
To the richt worschipfull and my loweing brother, Sir Robert Gordoun of
that ilk, kniclit barronet, one of his Maiesteis priwie cunsaH of Scottland, and one
of the priwie chalmer in Inghmd, these.
16C. Sir Alexander Gordon of Navidale, to his brother, Str Robert Gordon
of Gordonstown, — about his son's affairs, and clothes in which to attend
his nephew's marriage. 8th July 1G36.
JiiCIiT AVORSHIPFULL and loweiug brother,— I wryt to yow thrie or four dayis
sens, yit finding the oceatioun of this gentilhnan, John Sinclar, his sowthgoing, I
thochfc goodc again heirby to intreat yow to adwerteis me with the first occatioun
what I mey exspect concerning my sone his bissines, and giwe ye sie no appeirans
off ane heastie dispatch that ye get the warrand quhilk the cunsall gawe to my
sone his behuiff and send it me ; and i hoip thairby to prowyid for sum other
eowrss for my sone against it pleas ye cam hier, quhilk I wish for monie respectis
■mey be shortly. Alhvayis I remit all to your owin wisdome and goode considera-
tioun, not douting bot ye will wse the best cours ye ean thairin.
Our nephew, the Master of Reay, is contractit on our antt, the Earl off Cathncs
his dochter, Lady Isbell Sinclar, quhilk I pray God mey be to Godis glorie and
thair weillis. They ar to marie befoir Lambes, and I think I must be thair; and
seing I haiwe no clois heir I hawe thocht goode heirby to request yow to cans ask
for one Johue Tumour, tealzedur in Edinburgh, who is sone-in-lawe to George
Ker, who was our old man, with whom I left ano suit of black figuirit silk and
ane taffatie cloik, quhilk I request yow to eaus gett, and send it to me with the
boy I sent with my last letters to yow. And faill not send me ather als muteli
skarlet or fyin gray Lundon eloith with beas to lyin it, and sillwer leas and
buttons to serw it, conform to the best and newest fasion, as wilbe me ane ryidding
coitt; and send all with the boy I sent to yow last, and whatewer it cost yow
I sail delywer it "at your arrywell heir, or els take it of the best from John Rind,
and, will God, he shall be honestly contentit off all I rest him befoir I leawe
Edinburgh, quhilk ye sail assuir him off. This is all I hawe for the presentt.
163S.1
SIR AL?:XAXDEIi GORDOX OF XAYIDALE.
169
So cxspecting your answer in all things, and wishing yow all happines, I rest,
youris vorschip" most alTectionai brother to serw yow to death,
Dunrobin, this S of Jiilj, 1636.
Caus delywer this other to John Turnur.
The earll, our nephew, is now in the hillis at huntting.
To the riclit worsehipfull and my loweing brother, Sir Robert Gordoun of that
ilk, knicht and barronat, one off his Maicsteia priuie cunsall off Scotland,
these.
167. Johx, thirteenth Earl of Sutherlaxd, and others, to the Laird of
Findrassie, — calling a meeting at Forres in regard to the Service
Book. 1
Iuvernes, 26 April 1638.
Wery honerabill, — "We have receiwit letters from the rest of the nobilitie,
daitit at Edinburgh the 26 of March, desyring ws to meit heir at Invernes on
the 25 of this moneth, which we have obeyit, to the effect that their eommis-
sioneris might iuforme ws trewlie of their proeeidingis coucerning the novationes
of the service books and vthers abussis, so much thxeattiug the overthrow of
religion, lawis, and liberties of this' kingdome. Quharin vre find our selffis
sufficieritlie satisfeit, and that they have done nothing in all their proeeidingis
bot quhat is legall, to the glorie of God, the honour of our dreid soveragne the
king our maister, whieh is and salbe warrandit be the lawis of the kingdome.
And following their good example, wee have commnnicat the samen with the
1 From the Pitcalnie CoUection, Sixth Report of the Historical mss. Commission,
Appendix, p. 718,
170 TAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1010.
whole gentrie, ministers, ami borrowis of the schyris of Caithnes, Sutherland,
Invernes, Cromeitie. We have find all kynd of people Weill satisfeit, and for
your better satisfaetioune we have resolveit to be at Forres on Saturday nixt be
aught hours, the 2S of this instant, quhair ye will be pleased to rueit ws and to
receive the lyk satisfaction^ or gitT your oppinioun in a matter so neirlie con-
cerneing ws all. So expecting to sie you there, as we sail ever remayue, your
affect ionat good freinds,
[Signed by Jonx, Earl of Sutherland, Lords Lovat, Eeay, and
Sinclair, and the Lairds of Balxagowax and Striciien.]
To our werie honorable and luffing friend and cussing the Laird Fin-
re ssie. thess.
1G8. George Gordon, brother of John, Earl of Sutherland, to Sir Bqeert
Gordon, his uncle, — that Sir Robert had been charged to compear before
the parliament. 30th November 1G-10.
Right worse iefull and loving wncle — Iff the way of WTytting hade been saiflf
this yeare bygone, yee should have heard oftner from me of our proceedings.
I take the same to have been the reasone of your so seldome WTytting to ws,
whiche I expect your worship will now help, seing ther is ane ordiner intercours
and daylie exchange of letters betwixt our armie and our commissioners now at
Loundone. Seing it hes been my fortowne to be heer these eight days bygone
for some of my lordis affaires, I thought fitt to acquaint your worship by these
that yee ar chairged by the Iwtaits (amongs others of our eonntrey men who ar
for the presentt abroade from ther countrcy), to compeare before our parliament at
the nixt sessione theroff to ansuer to suche things as shalbe layed to your
worships chairge, wnder the pain of forfaultrie. What the particulars of your
accusatione wilbe I cannot learne. Iff I could have gotten anye occasione I hade
acquainted yow sooner heerwithe ; bot my opinione to yow is that yee stryve by
all meanes possible to keep the dyet. This muche I thought wes incumbent to
me to lett yow knowe, it comming to my eares, least yee should be surprysed on
a worse. I doubt not bot by the relatione of our commissioners and ther
informatione to the parliament of Ingland, your worship will learne what our
164 4.] GEORGE GORDOX, BROTHER OF TILE EARL. 171
behaviour liathe been this la^t yeare in Scotland, ami how wee have been vrged
by necessitie to doe what we have done. As for our owne bussmes in the northe
I cannot commit to paper the particulars theroff till it please God wee meet.
Onlye Sleight Toine Yaighe is become our competitouris of late, who, within
these fewe adges, thought it no discredit to be servants to our ancestouris. My
lord canu get natlier principall nor aunwell from Donald Dowe, who intendis, so
far [as] I cann learue, to vse yow in the lyke rpialitie. lie hopes his wncle will lett
liim have the annwell of his sowmes free during his lyftyme for his good behaviour
towardis him and his in tymes bygone. Your band to the Dutchc merchant is
not as yett retired. The moneys yec ordained John Bruce to giue to the
chambcrland at Wittsonnday last is not as yett giwen. Ai our freiudis in the
northe ar well, praised be God, ouly Janet Gordone in Golspietowir is deade.
Mr. Gilbert Gray is maryed to the chamberlandis daughter. The Lord Sinclair
hes been in Catteyues this whyle, and hes brought Francis, Catteynes his sone,
alongs with him for some ryot he offered to one of his servants ther. So remitting
all other particulars till meeting, whiche 1 wishe may be shortlie, I rest, yuur
worships most afTtctionat nephue and servant, G. Gordone.
Newecastle, the last of November 1640.
The comes hes not been well winn in Scotland this year, nather is the crope
so good as in former years it hes been, therfore be not so rashe in selling of your
comes in Murray this yeare as yec wes the last. Our parliament is prorogat to
the fourteenthe of Januarii, which is the dyet of your compearance with the rest
who ar cited.
To the right worshipfull my most affectionatt and loving wncle, Sir Robert
Gordone of Dreynie, and one of his Maiesties privie chamber in Ingland, these.
169. John, thirteenth Earl of Sutherland, to David, Lord Elcho, after-
wards second Earl of Wemyss,— affairs in Sutherland and Caithness. 1
Tayne, the 14 off August 1644.
My werie honoraeill good Lord, — Your ordours we haue receawit from this
bcrar, and as I haue formerly wrytten, ther neids nothing be expectit from ws heir
1 Original letter at Wemysj.
172 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1644.
till the slowness off Cathnes and malignance off Strauawer and Assint, which ar
within our diwis-ioue, be taken course with. I hope it will suffice ws to goe on
according to the Inst Parliaments ordours sent with me heir, seing our diwisione
nowe is imparit and clipt by taking such off the name off M c Kenzie from ws as
wer appoyntit to joyne with ws by the first act ; wher we wer to lewie 1C houn-
dreth foott ; as for horses, the parliament did consider we wer vnable to furnisho
auie, and therfor did di?pence with them. The Laird off Murkell in Cathnes,
who is conwiner off ther committie off war, doth ahvayes for^lowe them in that
shyre, and not only hinder them, hot by his reports off [injwasione off my Lord
off Reay and others by sea, and throghe the fears off the Clane Donald from the
west, puts all others in such feares, as ther will hardly be auie men at all gotten
to be lei wed out off thir ffikb, except such be taken course with for the ewell re-
po[rJts, and all our nightbours about ws martch before ws, and then, God willing,
we shall eall vp ther reire. My coussing, Francis Sinelaire, is gone to yow with
Drumme ; we hauesairly rlelywerit him to the Shireff [off] Inverness, and to Torbet
in my Lord Seaforts behalff. Murkell did make ws wait for him all Satterday,
Sounday, and Monday, till tuelff a clock, and Francis ean showe your lordship,
which hath not prejudgit the lidges a littell in all places. I hope your lordship
will assist Francis, that none be shairers with him in the prissoners fynes, for
others off the committie who wer present with him at the apprehendiug off them,
altho he was cheiff man, wold wishe to be shairers also, notwithstanding he hath
noblie intertinied them since ther taking ; so I hope your lordship will doe your
best for him, and deall with him as I did formerly wryt to accept to be my liw-
tennent eollonell, and iff he accept off it, that your lordship mowe the eommittie
to wryt in his favors, both to ws and Cathnes for that end, and that ane threat-,
ning letter be wrytten with him also to Cathnes, for the spidie dispatch off ther
lewies. Ther is ane ge[n]ttellman off my acquaintance, who, being bread with
young Drumme, being his coussing, was foolishly led on by them againest the pub-
lick, bot did newer drawe sourd nor shoot a shoott to the prejudice off anie off the
lidges, as he snears and assewers by aue letter of his to me. Nowe he repents him
selff off his follie, and doth promise amendiment in tymes eommiug. The gentell-
mans name is "Wrquart, the tutor off Crommertis soue, Craighouse ; therfor, iff your
lordship thinks he may expect ar±ie favor, he will gett seweralls will be suirties
for his good behawiour in tymes eommiug, and I hope your lordship will adwer-
tise me what may be expeetit, seing he was at Monross also, and that your lord-
1C35.] JOUX t THIRTEENTH EARL OF SUTHERLAND. 173
ship will doe all for him yow can, seing only throghe ignorance, folly, and youuth,
lie was drawen on with the multitude ; which favor I wold esteim, iff ther be anie
possibilitie in obtaining off it, as done to my selff, and shall ewer [profjess that I am,
Yoiu - lordships affectionat coussing and servant,
Z^/Tl^J-^)
Your cousing, my bedfellow, is in the old maner, and hath hir humble serwice
presentit to your lordship, whom shoe longs extreamly to sie.
It is no wonder that the Master off JUeay doth giwe no obedience to the Esteats
ordours, when in despyt of them he doth keipe ane open table to the Marquss of
Iluntly in his feilds, and, as they report, doth goe openly to ther churches, which
I admeir the Esteats sould so louge suffer.
For the right honorabill my werie good lord and most affect ionat coussing, my
Lord Elcho, these.
170. John, thirteenth Earl of Sutherland, to Sir Ludovic Gordon,
younger, of Gordonstown, — sending him his plate to convert into cash
and to obtain for him a pass to Strathnaver. ISth April 1G55.
Eight honorabill and loveing cusine, — I haue sent the bearer heiroff, my serwant,
with my siluer plate to Inuernes, and lies desyreit him to go by you, hopeing
that you will take the paynes as to go that length to sie it sold, and iff Mr.
Cuper will take it to pay himselff with the first end therof. And if he will not
buy it, whosoeuer will, you may caus pay him his money furth of the first end
therof; and quhat superplus beis over Mr. Cupers money, he may bring it home
that I may pay Mr. Johne Uaynes money (which I sould pay ouce this week)
17 t FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1C55.
which you know extendia to ane thousand merkis. I desire quhen you go to
Inuernes, to get aue pas for me and my convoy to Straitlniaver from the Colonell,
that I may go about my affairis with the Lord Itheay and my tenandrie thair.
For I haue gottin aue letter yeisternight from William Monro, my serwant thair,
schowcing me that iff I did not go ther once in the moneth off iNTaii that much
of my landis ther would he ley ; and he wreits also that vnles I giue downe of the
reut he will not get it sett. Bot I haue desyrit him to sett the landis in the best
way he cane; and quhat freindis sail allowe, I sail also. I am gone this day to
Helmsdaill to sie ane boat that is come for my victuall fraughtit ther which (being
in beast) makes me make vse of ane borrowit hand. So this all, bot hopes you
will be myndfull of quhat I wrote to you in my last, and of my memorandum,
but that I am, your most affeetiouat eusine to serue you,
J. E. SOUTHERLAND.
Dunrobin, IS Apryle 1C55.
For the right honorabill and my loveing eusine, Sir Lodowick Gorduun off
Gordounstowne, younger, thais.
[On the back of the letter, aud in another hand, probably as a draft of an
answer, is written as follows.] Arboll is come from South, as I beleue you haue'
heard ; he called here, but I was from home. I heare the generall hath refused to
subscrive your losses, but hath signed some others that you would not take along
with yours. I am sory you are so ill aduised as to lose euery man that can be
vsefull to you. This was not vntold very plainly, but eonsell is no command. I
haue as I pereeaue in my former letters [been] more plaine then pleasant, but I
could doe no lesse in discharge of my conscience and dutie to your lordschip
and family, resolueing hereafter to forbeare.
171. John, thirteenth Earl of Sutherland, to Sir IIobert Gordon, —
about the difficulty of raising mouey. 29th October 1655.
ItlGHT WORSCHIPFUXL and lowing wnele, — I haue receawit yours from this berar,
togither with two letters from Collonell Barkley, on to your selff and ane other to
your sone, which I haue sent back by this berar, togither with Jh'oseph Brodies
letter. As for Collonell Barkleys desyre, it is so resonable if I wer in power to
obtemper it, that iu reasone it could not be refuissit, and I might esteim it a favor
that he sould contiuowe his owen moueyes for a tyme rather then think it aide
1655.] JOIIX, THIRTEENTH EARL OF SUTHERLAND. 175
wayes strick dealling. Bot to speak trewly I doe not sie wher tlier can be so
much moneye3 haid in thir feilds as two honndr^th pounds sterling, for our
salmone doth ws no good this yeir. For my Stratlmawcr rent, Captain Campbell
hath gotten off it alradie abowe 700 merkes; so I can hardly expect on houn-
dreth pounds from that, considering how ewell payers they ar, and the ley laud
is ther ; and for the silwer rent in the countrey it is all foruaillit alradie. I
haue giwen ordour to pay Jhone Gunne 400 merkes according to your letter, and
annuellrents in mens owen hands will exhaust much ; besyds intrests resting
ower yeir, ther being nothing to pay them with the last, which much (must) be
first payit this yeir, otherways they must haue ther principell soumcs. Such as the
Brodies, the Monros in Caithness, both Sir. Alexander and Mr. Bawid, ar excciding
pressing for ther principell soumes, and its fair if we can get them postponit, or
get them to continowe the principell soumes by paying them ther intrest. I know
also your self! must haue moneyes, so this will exhaust more then I expect to get
in, and no word off my selff for my servants fies and moneyes. I behowit both to
borrow for my owen wsse, and other things for the wsse of the house which
must be payit, els I will get non againe to borrowe in a neccssitie, nather
can I my selff be still in this kynd without geting anie thing of that is
allotted for my owen mantinance. I shall requyre no mor then is allotted,
which must be haid altho all sould soure ; for I think it a sinne to withhold
servants fees, some abowe two yeirs resting, and ther is none 1 think that
makes conscience off ther waves bot will think it a veight on ther spirits, and
its on of the crying sinnes, so that I can riot sie howe it can be haid. Iff
William Downie hath taken the pleat for his share of that money its weill. I
" sould endewor to get the other halff iff possibly it can be haid. Ther can littell
be expectit out of the parishe of Kildonnand in rcgaird much off the land ther is
blastit with the water in the summer speats. Ther comes haue not taken meal,
and yow knowe except som mairt and mutton in the cost syd, what can be
expectit, Strathbrora now being wedset. So yow may conjector what moneyes
is to be haid in to doe ane considerable bussiness. Howewer, ther shalbe nothing
left vudonc that can be done. And for wictuall rest ther nids none expect moneys
theroff. Iff the Lord bless them with a good crope, boll for boll is all can be
expecttit, altho ther be abowe 400 bolles resting the werie last yeir. This popell
haue goten such a coustome off rest, befor I enterit with them, that the world can
not make them good payers, trusting ewer what is resting will be still forgiwen,
17G
FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTEES. [1655.
as it was at my entrie, or otherwaya wo must cast our land, eye ff wo exact ; t^m
I did send the tetania off Collonell Barklej- later lo Inuerne.s by 1 hemas
Mansonc I knowe iff it mist tlie Collon.Il it was delyweutt to Mr. Kobeit.
' Towe for that ntisfortunat woman my daughter, shoo w ryes to my wyff ha
shoe can not helpc it. Hir freinds will nut at me for lux. I knowe ho^e hat
ommTh, hot who ewer doth so it will he found they shall nather haue on
seiencenor eredit in it, altho they regairdit not me hot him that is to su'ceid
Xo wronge aue old family, for that I will not (altho I miglU with u inn
call hir Let the world he judge, nather shoe nor they vwU hane crc.ut
n it and I will ahyd the wtmost in it. I haid Mr. Jhone Duglas monejs
"ade to giwe himf hot when the man was gone I hane giwen tins herar
ane hounui^th and sex merkes to pay Mr. Alexander Symmer and haue giw n
h m the other fyftie merkes to hring vuto yow to deburse for hir ir , su« d smaU
iotes as shoe stands in noid off. I haue desyrit this herar to buy ^ -
linning as wilbe hir 6 smockes. Iff I could haue commands more money I souk
L \t it I haid not a "roat off my esteat, hot 10 pounds sterling at the
" o thnltis a hound,th poinds I haue giwen 2,M. Scots more out
leo I haue gottin in, for I haue given «1L for the schoo mas ers pent, om, uX '
I can -el itt in a-aine. I haue wry ten to Jhoseph Brodie, and to 1 ranees also,
o c on iowatloun off ther moneys. I haue sent yow Jhosep. ■ let ter open
hat yow may reid it, and therafter close it and send it to him, which is all I can
%rz u w ** i *>* — ° *»* TKrrr 4
nephew to serwe yow.
Dounrobin, the 29 off October 16D5.
For the right worshipfull and my most affectionat wncle, Sir Robert Gordoune
off that ilk, knight and barronet, at Gordonstoune, these.
172. JOHN, THIRTEENTH E.VEL OF SUTHEELAND, to SlB LUDOVIC GORDON of
Gotdon.town.-tho difficulty of raising money. 28th 1 ebraary 16d6.
Eiokt woreemprnu. and lowing coussing.-Yours of the 26 come to my
handis this day be tuelff a clock. This being our sessione day could ^*
the herar til this night. Andrew Cunnynghame did nothing at Internes
1650.] JOIIX, THIRTEENTH EARL OF SUTHERLAND.
relatione off the maine thing he went for, which was to sell some wictuall to buy
salt, which no we Captain Gambhell hath sent from Lrith, with fa] weshell I haue
frawghtit and dispatehit this morning, and Androw Cnnnynghame in hir, to sie the
wictuall delywerit. As for the scheats I did wryt off formerly vnto yow, I haue
sent this berar, Adame Gordoune, to goe alunges with anic of your serwants who
haue bespoken the scheats to buy them. As fur moneys, I haue none, for trewly
Captain Cambell left me als bair as the birke at Crisme=s when he went last south,
and I haue goten in none since, natlier doe I expect much in heast, except a
littell from Strathnawer, and Captain Campbell shewit me that Mr. Couper must
haue that to be done [first] in pairt off payment off 4 or 500 pounds sterling
[my sones] hath taken from him at Loundone. Iff I wer als exorbitant in my
spending as they ar I wold be called a destroyer of the housse. They hawe
exceidit tuysse that is allovit for them. Yow knowe thcr was 4000 merkis
a yeir allovit for them. It is not 2 yeivs since they went for Loundone
till Lambes nixt, and they haue spent (iff it be trewe that Captain Campbell
WTyteth) abowe 16,000 merkes. Wher shall all this moneys be haid 1 How-
ewer, I will say no more off this vntill Captain Campbells returne, that
I may knowe the eertantie theroff. Therfor, seing 1 haue no moneys, and
that Kobert Inces will not take these moneys till Witsonday, that the Lady
Lreay promises to pay hir pairt also, I think it not amis^e to giwe this berar ane
houndreth and fyftie pounds to pay for the bdieats, and appoynt Thomas Liudesay
to send horsis with the berar to Tayne or Poitincoulter, and we shall send to
meit him there to carie them home. I think yow sould pay the Brodies ther
intrests, and ]NIr. Jhone Douglas also. As concerning our coussing Patrick, he
pressit me to let him goe ower to vissit your father, and trevlie I haid not bot on
doller, and I was necessitat to borrowe als much from the old chalmerland as maid
it out ten pounds for to make his chairges ower.. He weut from this yeister-
night to Kirktoune, and I think he hath gone ower this day to yow, yeit I am
not suir. Howewer, you will seie him shortlie, therfor, receawe back his
letter heirwith. I haid [on] of my owen a piettie why 11 agoe from James
Farquhar, much to on purposse with this off yours, bot without [I] wadset land
I sie no way howe he can be payit. Jhone Graye, Creichs brother, is sicking my
lands about Dornoch [in] wedset, and offers only ane thowsand pounds the
ehalder, which I think too lowe a rait. Ther is ane other gentellmau off the
name off lioss that offers me his money at "Witsonday — some 4000 merkes. He
z ,
178 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1656.
will take Brora and keipe anc inne ther, and on!) desyres the superplus of his
intrest at 8 merited the boll, out off the bolle to 1m? giwen him ycirly, which, iff it
could be effectual for some ycirs wntill ae Wut about v 3, I think it wer no
ewell bargane. Bot iff I set anie takes off Brora, if we can doe anie thing in coll
workes, and drawc anie popeil in to that end, tbuy can not leiwe without Brora.
Acquaint me what yow think off these particulars, and what yow will adwysse
me to doc in them, which is all I haue to say for the present vntill I heir from
yow againe (only that according to your desyre 1 shall giwe the berar 2s. sterling),
bot that I shall still continowe, right worschipfull, your most affectionat coussing
to serwe yow, J- E. Southerland.
Dounrobiu, the 28 off Februarii 1G56.
Yow challenge me for neglecting to returne answer to Thomas Lindesay.
Let him remember to whom he delywerit his letter that he may call for it, for
I have newer seen it. It is not my coustome not to returne ansuers iff oppor-
tunitie offer ; and the rather 1 wold not haue faillit, iff I had receawed it, being
my owen concernment, to haue returne him ansuer to you off my owen, and thankit
bim also hartly fur his paines. Bot I could not mak a returne vnto a letter
wliich I haue newer receawit nor seine. As for the commission that Culloden
hath gotten to take our oathes, for my owen pairt I am cleir; altho it was com-
moned, it was newer condescend;! by me, for I knewc ewer I was not able to pay
intrest, and iff he haid insistit in it I wold haue casten the bargan befor I haid
granted it.
For the right worschipfull and my most affectionat coussing, Sir Lodowick
Gordouue, appirant of Gordonstoune, these.
173. Sir Robert Gordon of Embo, to George, Lord Strathnaver, afterwards
fourteenth Earl of Sutherland, — respecting the afl'airs of the estate
of Sutherland. ISth August 1660.
My noble Lord, — Tho I haue litell to ade to what I wrytt to your lordship
with your brother and Sir Georg Monro in relation to your affears, yet haueing
sent this berar expreslye your lordships lenth to know of your lordships and
16G0.] SIR ROBERT GORDON OF GORDOXSTOWX. 179
ladies weilfear, I judgit it my dewtie to giue yow ane accompt of what past sine
we haue complitd our bargone of kous with Captain Penat, whicli lies, vith this
sex month ces which we ar jiiit now paying, exhauatit all the monys thatt we can
be in expectation of till Mertimes ; and if wther thing be payit out then that off
necessitie most be, ther vill be litell or nothinge had then. So that your lord-
ship wold doe veill to think how your selff and your father may be swplyit in
monys fur this winter, for bier yow may expect non. "What furder your lord-
ships father lies wryten to you in ansuer to your lordships to him from Londone
the fourth oft" this instant your lordship vill consider, and let ws be tymlye and
particularly aquentd with your lordships vesolowtione therm. Your lordship
shall resawe heirwith the compt fited with Colloden, which vill aquent yow with
whatts resting him. ^Ye judge your lordships fishing this year will bo about
IS lastt. \Yhat agriement we mak with him for whats out ower the bargone
your lordship shall know with the neixt oecatione. If I had nott bein pressit to
it by my lord I had nott wryten any to your lordship at this tyrae, hauing nott
so much as resawed a lyne from your lordship sine your going to London bot 011
off the sexteinth of Junij. My lord, your lordships frinds heir is so secure by
your lordships silenc, that if your lordship mynd them nott in the transacttion
off afiears, thatt they may niisse of that which wthcrways they might atteyne to,
if we wer more frequently aquented by your lordship, the amendment wherof
for the future is werie humblye begit for by, my noble lord, your lordships most
humble and obedient serwant, S. K. Gordon e.
Dunrobin, the 18 Agust 1660.
For the rightt honourabill my Lord Strathnaver, thes.
174. John, thirteenth Earl of Sutherland, to his daughter-in-law, Lady
Jean Wemyss, Lady Strathnaver, — stating that his journey south will
not be so early as he expected. 20th September 1660.
Madame and dear dawghter, — Yours off the 3d instant, as also that yow wryt
on the margen off your husbands off the 10th by my sone Robert, ar both eome
to my hands. For anie thing I can sie as yeit for the indictione off a parliament,
it is not werie probable (els these no we vpon the Committee off Esteats doe not
walke by the old rewles) it shall sitt so shone as was giwen out, wheroff I hawe
1 SO FA MIL Y A XI) DOMESTIC LE TIERS. [1660.
wryten at gryter lcnth. to my sone. So that I think your ladyship neids not expect
to sie me till it be neir Mertimess, that we may get all tilings the better done ;
and (God willing) I shall not be forgetfull of anie thing yow liawe recommended
vnto me. This gent el man, a trustic servant oflf your husbands, is gone south to
obwiat others in these things wheriu he may be serviciblc vnto ws and for the
good off our popell ; and I trust your ladyship will put your husband out to doe
all that lys in your powers for him, and the good theroff will redound vnto your
selffs. I will adde no more least I sould be trowblsome, bot that I longe
excidingly to sie yow, which shall be indewored (with neglecting als littell off
our business as can be) by, madam, your most affectionat father and humble
servant, J. E. SoUTUERLAND.
Dounrobin, the 20 off September 1GG0.
I am excelling sorie to heir that Lord Archibalds horse sould be so
cwell wsse by the way. I rcsolwe to bring ane other littell horsse south with
me, and if he plea.se him better then the other he shall hawe his choysse. But I
begge your ladyship may present my humble service to him and to Lady
Margaret lykways.
For the right honourabill my Lady Strathnawer, these.
175. John, thirteenth Earl of Sutherland, to his son, George, Lord
Strathnaver, — regarding the choice of commissioners for the shire to
Parliament, and commissioners for the assessment, etc. 21st September
1660.
Dear SONE, — Both yours off the 3d instant, as also yours off the 10th by your
brother, ar come to my hands; notwithstanding off all these we ar not the
wysser when the parliament will sit, seing the Comniittie off Esteats hawe isiwed
fourth no ordours for choysing commissioners nather from bruch nor shyre.
Nather is ther anie forraall indictione, so that I can not think the parliament will
sitt so shone as is talkit off, which was the 23 off the nixt mounth : for off old
1CG0.] JOIIX, TllIRTEEXTll EARL OF SUTJ1ERLAXD. 181
ther was 40 freie days intimatione giwen to all the brut-lies and shyres off this
riatione for ehoysing ther commissioners, and for giwing them compitent tyrne for
reparing and preparing them selrfs for it. So that itideid I sould be content
that our Barsmarkat wer past befor I took journey, that we might ha we the bak
(off the Martiruess bussiness) broken. I perceawe Sir Kobert is werie vnwilling
to goe south, he says, without running him sclrf in gryt debt (which his condi-
tione calls not for), which wold be it vtter mine he could not goe ; and he says
he knowes the shyre off old, which as yeit stickes to him that he can newer get
anie thing off them. Yea, altho he haul his dyet off me, yeit what clothes he did
take otf then is as yeit vnsatisfied, so as I hawe said, he seimeth altogither
vnwilling. Yeit iff ther be others choyssen they will mak the shyre doe dewtie
to them; and it may be it wilbe littell to our adwantadge, who in anie thing we
ar consemit may crosse ws. He wishes your brother may be commissioner, and
seing the ordour is ther be two from ewerie shyr, your brother may be on
lykwais, for it will inable him heirafter to heir, ;ind Sir Itobert may haue the
chairges. You may wryt som thing positively to this purposse to them both and
to your other friends, seing I knowe the shire is werie vnable to find chairges for
on much less for two, and presse it vpon Sir Itobert els lie will not vndertak it.
I will remit t this to the berars suffitiencie to show vow what necessitie and neid
ther is for it. 2sowe this berar is adwyssit by ws to goe south in tyme, least
others prewent him who we heir is making south. Yow wold indewor (as
sherrefT) by all your moyen, both with the dark register and such others as may
be helpfull in it, to get him established shireff elarke. Yow know what pre-
judice it may be to }'our tenentrie and popell to hawe in anie aweritionss vnjust
man, or him who was formerly in that place. Xixt, yow knowe what ane aweband
it will be on the popell to hawe ane stranger commissar of this shyre, which also
yow may prewent als much as yow ean, and wsse yowr wholl indewor for him.
Thridly, if cess be continowed, or iff ther suiild' be neid off ane collector, the
berar can showe yow what indewors hawe bcine maid, and ar as yeit on foot, to
get James Crawfoord out that they might hawe in on off ther owen. Iff James
can not bruke it him selff ye wold indewor also for the berar. Iff it be objectit,
howe can he hawe all the places and trust off the shyre put on him or on one
man, it may shone be ansuerit the ablest man is always most fitting for plaees
of trust in that kynd, and that he will find anewe to be surtie for his honestie
and integritie in anie trust shalbe hiid vpon him j and nixt, it is no strainge
132 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1CC0.
thing, for Thomas Mansonc haid all these places in his pcrsone formerly, and the
bcrar is nothing inferiour to him in anie qualifieatione that ewer he haid, and the
other nowe is far short off what he hath beine formerly. The fourth thing which
1 wold wishe vow to aniraadwert is iff thcr be commissioners for the assesment
chossen off newe or continowtd, that yow may get some put off, such as Arbo
and Creich, and adde for them Kilernanc and Captain Robert, and Robert Calder
off Torrische, and Jhone Gurdoune in Garthie. For these on the other syd strywes
always to bear ws doune by woycing in anie thing that comes in hands, as tlier
berar can iuforme yow what worke leatly we ha we haid by Arbo and his freinds
on the other syd, and what sweit exprcssioncs that famouss man Arbo hath wrj ten
off me both to Collonel Man and to Liwtenneut Collonel Hill, who did me the
favour as to send me his letters, which receawe hcirinclosit, and keipe them as
ane ewident, for I am informit Creich says all his brother hathe wryten ar
justifiable. Bot indeid Skibo disowenes them in it; and since he did sie these
letters he hath shutt his gents off Skibo vpon ther nosse, both Creich and Arbos,
and wold not meit with them at all nor countinance them, for which yow may
giwe him thankes in my behulff. And yow may be confident all he sayes ar leys,
wheroff yow knowe Ids facultie. Now, as consenting your salmond, considering
howe all your Mertimess dewties ar alradie for the most pairt spent for the two
last cesses, so that we will not get so much off them as will carie ws south and
pay our servants fcis, who must get ther leiwes, ther being alradie two houndreth
and ten pounds sterling pay it; al off this Mertimess alradie ; and considering
howe long it is a comming in, we must be necessitat to sell your salmond to
Duncan Forbes vpon his brothers accompt, seing ther is not a merchant will offer
twentie rnerkes for the barrel!. And alt ho we could ha we ere res, which can not be
haid bot by them selffs (who wold be loath to ther owen prejudice to giwe them),
as to pack them they wold be taken the nixt yeir bot for grayfishe, as lykways
Jhone Forbes wold presently press payment for all the former salt yow owe him.
And iff we can hawe 1-t or 15 pounds from them adwancit, cuntinowing the old
salt vntill your new or nixt yeirs fishe can satisfie them, and ane houndreth bolls
off new salt layd in at Strathnawer fur ten merkes the boll, and salmone taken
for it the nixt yeir as we can agreie, I think we mak no ewell bargane, which
we intend to prosecut. "We intend lykways to hyre Huchone Angus boat for our
prowision* 3 , or some other, als cheape as can be, which is all at present I can
wryt. Bot wishing the Lord, who is the only wysse counseller and director off
1CG2.1 LADY JEAX GORDON. IS?.
all these who depends vpon him, to be always your God, your gyd, and your
gain], I only adde that I am, dear sone, your most affectionafc father till death,
J. E. SOUTUERLAND.
Dunrobin, the 21 off September 1GG0.
I trust yow will speak to William Downie consenting his moneys, and
giwe him als fair words as yow can, wntill we may both speake him at
gryter lenth.
For my deare sonne, my Lord Stratlmawer, these.
17G. Lady Jean Gordon, wife of Captain 1'obert Stewart of Ethay in Orkney,
to George, Lord Strathnayer, — requesting him to offer her excuse
for non-eompearance to the Presbytery of Sutherland. 1st June 1GG1.
Deir BROTHER, — Ye shall know that the last siood that was in Caithnes causid
tins presbitry to sumons me to compir to the presbitry of Sutherland, which I
cannot doe att present by reson of my unability of body by my being with child.
Therfor I in tret you to doe me the fauour as to wret in your owne neame my
excuse to Mr. George Gray and Mr. Juhu Makulach, by reson of my being with
child ; and this I entret you to doe with the first okcation that goes, in hope
wherof I ame, your sister and seruantt, Jean Gordon.
Ethay, the first of June 1G61.
Lett thes present my serais to your lady and young sone.
Thes for the right honnourable my Lord Strathnauer att Edinbrough.
177. Alexander, first Lord Duffus, to George, Lord Strathnaver, —
concerning certain tacks of teinds and the mussell scalps of the Ferryovens.
Elgine, the 4 November 1662.
My kobell Lord, — I dide wreitt to your lordship befor nowe desyreing thatt
peapers was drawein upe att Ediubruch, and which your lordship, with the taekeis
off the teindes, promissed to send heir, thatt ane dispositione off so mauie as your
184
FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS.
[1GG2.
lordship bade selde might he drauein npe; 1 »u tt I perceaue by Carubusavie that your
lordship sayeis itts forgot fr ptt F.dhbruch, and as for the tackeis off the teindes,
your lordship are to send them south. My lord, withowt the tackeis ther cane he
noething dine, so thatt I shall entreatt your lordship would, and itt weir butt for
never so shorte ane tyme, send them heir, and I shall cause draue upe the
dispositione, and send them to your lordship, ore south, as your lordship shall
think fitting. Hade itt nott bein my indispositions off health by the colde I hade
waitted one you my selfe. Butt if ther be aniethiug your lordship would haue
my owein presence, upon advertisement I shalbe readie to waitt one you. So
lett me entreat your lordship thatt sumo close maye be putt to it. My loid, I
perceaue that your lordship caussed your servantt tacke my fishers rudders for
tackeing mussell one this syde off the Ferric Trulie, tho itt hade bein one the
other syde, I would haue louicked your lordship would not haue stode with me
for suche a bussiues. I would nott refuise your lordship for a bussiues off
greatter consequense. Butt, my lord, being one this syde, I hope your lordship will
nott questioue my right, being withowt controwersiJe as is nottarlie knouein ; so,
my lord, I desyre and entreatt thatt your lordship will cause delyuer the men
ther rudders, they being mightelie prejudged for wantt off them. If itt hade
bein aide othir hade dine itt I would nott demande them after this maner. Butt
1 desyre nott to haue the least heairing with your lordship, as I haue shunned itt
all my tyme, so I shall folio we awyse for preventting off itt, ther being noething
so muche desyrreid by me then thatt I maye approue my selfe,
Your lordships affectionatt cousing and most faithfull servantt,
Alr. L. Duffus.
My wyffe and I presentts our service to your lordship, your nobell ladye, and
to my nobell lord, your father. I entreatt for your lordships answeir by the
bearer.
For the ryght honorabell the Lord Strathnaver, thes.
1663.] PATRICK, BISHOP OF CAITHNESS. 1S5
178. Patrick, Bishop of Caithness, to the Heritors of the Parish of
Far, — appointing Mr. John Munro to serve the parish temporarily.
HthMay 1663.
Right HOXOCJRABILL and much respected freinds, — In regaird that all the churches
of this presbytrie are supplied excepting your congregatione onelie, I did expect
that at our last synodicall meeting I suld hawe heared some deseres from yow irt
reference to your supplie, and seeing I heard none, I thoght it convenient (wntill
providence offer a way for your full setlement) to send yow Mr. John Munro to
keep up publict dueties among vow. And tho he be infirme in bodie, yet I hope
yee will hawe satisfactione of him, and therfor I doe desire yee may see to his
accommodatione in manse and gleib, quhairbe he may be incouraged to lay out
himselfe the more for your good ; and be helpefull to him iu his necessities, qhich
I hope will nocht want its reward iu due time. I adde no more at present, bot
that I am, your well wishing and assured freiud, Pa. B. Cathnes.
Thurso, the U May, 1CG3.
For the right honourabill and his much respected fieinds, the heretours of the
paroch of Farre, these.
179. Alexander, first Lord Duffi'8, to George, Lord Strathnaver, —
further concerning the dispute as to the mussel scalp. 14th December
1663.
My Lord, — I haue receaued your lordships, and I acknouledge itt was my mis-
fortune I should a bein from home as your lordship returned from the south.
Butt as to thatt particulare anentt the teind I shalbe readie to waitt one your
lordship att anie pleace your lordship pleasseis to acquantt me ; butt itt weir
necessarrie your lordship weir ended with the bisshope. As for thatt your lord-
ship wreitts anentt whatt right I haue to the mussel scape, I was newer questioned
butt of leatt. Whatt cane be [the] ground off itt I knoue nott, especiallye
wheir nowe my men tackeis mussells being one this syde off the watter. Wee
haue bein in vse off tackeiug all kynd off nsheis butt the least questkme, and to
questione this thatt is so clire, and wheiroff we haue bein in possessione so longe,
180 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [IC63.
I think the land wave he als weill questioned. My lord, ther is noething will
niaoke me ueglect all deutie to your lord&hip, and I hope, your lordship will nott
desyre off me butt whatt is just, and iu thatt none shalhe more willing to satisfie
you then he v. ho shall remuine, your lordships most humbell servantt,
Alr. L. Duffus.
Elgine, the 14 December 1CG3.
By these presentt my humbell service to my lord, your father, and to Mester
Robert, your brother.
For the right honorabell my Lord Strathnaver, thes.
180. David, second Earl of YVemyss, to his daughter, Lady Jean Wemyss,
Lady Strathnaver, — informing her about her sou John.
Wamyss, 16 May [1G]G6.
Deir DOUGHTER, — I am glead that you thinck your doughters ar in the uay of
recouery. I uish itt hartly. For your horsses, I haue putt them to the grisse
alrady att East Wemyss ; 1 hop or September they shall be fatte. My uife hes
sore eies and can not uritte to you. But shee says that shee uill not peart uith
Bille Johu to be killed with eiuell hotte aire of Edinbrugh. Ue meit sea to him.
Uhen Earle of Neubrugh eommes heir ue shall speack him. But he tould me
himself att Seatoune that the duke hes recalled his gift. So itt is nought he can
doe. My uife is your seruant. Bille is uell, and nishes you all so. But he is
pleassed with his ships in the stanks and his vnkells eumpane.— I am euir, your
louing father, Wemyss.
181. John Murray of Abirscors, and David Murray, to George, Lord
Strathnaver, — requesting him to proceed against certain rebels. 10th
April 1667.
Right honnourarill, — Our most humble service being rememberit wnto your
lordship; it was not wnknowine vnto your lordship quhow miserable and
wncristianlie our mother and we haue beine oppressit be Hughe Murray and
Johne Murray in Blaroehe, and Johne Neilsoune and the rest of those fugitive
rebellis that followis thame, moir then these twell monethis bygoun j and what
1667.] JOIIX MURRAY OF ABIRSCORS. 187
miseries and stressis we sufferit since, not getting ane groat of our a wine to mau-
taine ws aitlier in meate or in death, and our hous to be tliryse plunderit, our
mother cast out and lyke to starve for hike of raantinence, our selrfvis taikine
prissoneris to wildernessis, and bound lyke theives and winditt in our bodies,
some of ws having beine lying in on bedd, not being able to sturr for the space
of thrie monethis, and yitt not able to travel 1 ane quarter of ane myle on foott ;
and which was worst of all, our sister, with twinnis in hir bellie, to be murthered
and killed by thame ; and yitt the doeris thairoff, notwithstanding of being longe
agoe declaired fugitives and rebellis, and ane commissioim and lettres of inter-
comuning having beine published against thame, yitt that they should be
barbered and quartered quhair ever they pleis iu everie corner in the cuntrey,
not regairding the danger of the intercomuning no moir then if they war the
kings frie liegis, so that such barbaritie and inhumanitie was not vsit in Lochaber,
or the most barbarous pairl in Seottland, these hundreth yeires bygoun, which
alltogither is weill knouiue to your lordship and to the nighbour cuntreyis
about. And notwithstanding that our commissioim against those robereris is to
the Earle of Seaforth, (and his freindis) a noble man to quhom we ar muche
ingaidgit for his lowe in doing for ws, and being content and willing to goe on
against those rebellis conforme to the commissioim quhen ever we pleased, for
which we haue good reasouu to be thankfull to his lordship and to remaine his
lordships servantis whill we leive, yitt notwithstanding of all this we, heiring
these fyve or sex weikis "bypast that your lordship was coming home, haue
resolved nowayes to truble the cuntrey with strangem till your lordship hom-
co[m]eing, quhilk, blissed be God, is now T effectuat, that we might sie quhat your
lordship wowld doe thairine. Thairfoir now we ernestlie desyre to know quhat
cours your lordship intendis to doe for suppressing and taiking those fugitive
rebellis, and for restoring our mother and ws to the peacable posessioun of our
estaitis and meins, sieing we can not subsist anny longer as we ar, being a Cris-
tiann dewtye ; besydis that we haue the lawe on our sydis, which we hope your
lordship wilbe pleased to taike ane speidie cours thairin, befoir my Lord Seaforth
and his freindis be necessitat to goe on in the bussines, which will be a greater
trubill to the cuntrey then they ar awarr of, besydis the haizard of being persued
for the intercomuning. Thairfoir againe and again we Immblie and ernestlie desyre
to know in wrytt with the berar what your lordship intendis to doe thairin, or if
your lordship will taike the bussines in hand or not for suppressing of those
1SS FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1671.
robereris, which is a Cristiandewtie. Hoping your lordship will not fail] to obey
suche ane just desyr, .is your lordship wold wishe the Lord of heavine to bliss
your lordship and your posteritie, and ty wa forder to pray for your lordship, and
to remaine, quliill we leive, expecting your lordships answer in wrytt with the
berar, my lord, your lordships mo&t humble and obedient servantis till deathe,
Joiine Murray of Abirscors.
Da. Murray.
Balloun, tlie 10 of Appryll 1GG7.
For the right hunnourabill and uoble lord my Lord Straithnaver, thes.
182. Margaret Bayne to George, Lord Sieathnaver,— complaining of the
violeut usage which she and her tenants received from Donald Bayne and
others.
Abirscors, the 7 of September 1G71.
Right honnouraeill, — I haue several] tymes befoir complainit to your lordship
annent our vsage, bot cannot gett anny rtdreds ; for George Gordoun in Sallache,
the widdo in Baillwlair, DoniuiKl Prontaeh in Craigtowue, and severall vtheris
thair, lies this yeir and several! vther yeires befoir castine thair truff and peattis
vpoun the boundis of Abirscors verie neir our tennentis lioussis. Lykvyse they
cutt and peill our woodis, and severall of the people of Craigton cam the last
twa Sabathis to our woodis and braik and did ryve ane number of tries, pulllii"-
uuttis, and tramped much of mye comes and my tennentis : and the people of
Wester Abirscors also lies dovne the lyke the last twa Lord dayes, and did ru^e
and stealle away greate burdines of our peas, as if thair war no order or justice
in the cuntrey, and as all war thair awine. As also Donald Bayne, of quhom thair
war former complaints maide to your lordsohip, came on Thursday last, about
middueight, with twelff or threattine persounis with him, to this towne, and did
scheare and leade away vpoun hors back fowr threavis of beare extending at least
to sex firlattis which grew vpoun land, which he tooke with his awine hand with-
out leive, after he was inhibited severall tymes, and carried the same throw our
feildis of beare and tooke away everie ane of thatne ane burdine of peas. And
vpoun the morrow in the evining efter the coruis war treade and found neir
Donald Boy, his hous, I sent boith my sonnis and some of my tennentis and
servantis with horssis to carrie back the cornes, th e said Donald Bayne and his
1G83.] GEORGE, FOURTH MARQUIS OF IIUXTLY. - 189
brother haul the number of fowr and twentie or thairby of men, wooman and
Boycs gaithered togitber to resist tlie talking back of the cornes, quhairof some
war beatting vpoun keattillis to- chasse away the horssis, and the said Donnald
Bayne and his brother and severall vtheris, with great batounis beatting and
chassing away my horssis and servantis, and throwing stonnis boith at thame
and my sonnis, so that such barbarus vsage and opine bangisterie was not vsit
formcrlie to anny in this eimtrey or els quhair except to our selvis ; and the said
Donnald Bayne alledgis that he hes your lordships overseight wnto it, and Robert
Gordoun, your lordships officer. And if wee gett no mendis for all these barbari-
ties wee neidc not complaine anny moire to your lordship, for wee cannot gett
anny man to lye in our cornis for feare they be smoored all neight in thair beddis ;
so that tliric or fowr of my men was verie evill hurt, and on of my horssis being
not lyke to leive for throwing of stonnis and beatting with roungis; and
except your lordship taike some speidie cowrse with this vsage yowr lordship will
hold ws excused to maike our redress clsquhair, which is all at presentt, bot
expectis yowr lordships answer in wrytte with the berar, and continowis, my
lord, your lordships most humble serwant, Margat Bayne.
For the right honnourabill and verie noble and potent lord, my Lord Straith-
naver, thais.
183. George, fourth Marquis of Huntly, to [John, Lord Strathnavee,
afterwards FrFTEEXTH Earl of Sutherland], — about the Militia, etc.
14 May 16S3.
My Lord,- — As yett I can give your lordship no considderable acount off
your nielitia, only yow may considder that wheu one a person is in favor vith
our ministers of Scotland they mack them fitt for evrey employ, or att lest vould
have the vourld belive them so. The chancelor vill shortly bee in this cuntrey.
He lias gott the estatt of Duddopp from his Majestic, and Claverhns has the
castell att Dundee. You have heard off a stopp putt to the devydding of Argylls
estatt, for which sum persounes nniy be nottissed. The Doucthes off Yorcke has
been thought vith chyld sum tim agon. When I shall see sum frinds whom
shortly I expect from Edeuboro, your lordship shall hear from mee. No person
is mor desyrus to serve yow then I am, for I am really your lordships most
affectionat cusiug and most humble servant, Huntly.
14 Maii, 1683.
190 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1683.
184. George, fourth Marquis of Huntly, to [John, Lord Strathnaver,
afterwards fifteenth Earl of Sutherland], — with congratulations on
the birth of the Master of Strathnaver. 19th December 1GS3. Excerpt.
I receaved vith extraordinar joy your letter vith the berar, and the newes
off my Laddoy Stmhnavers saff dclivrrey. I vish this Master of Strathnaver
all imaginable happines, and the lyck to his father and mother. On Saturday
last your servant cam to this place. I have kepped him untill this day, that the
news which I expected from Edinboro might goe to yonr lordship, but the storm
having hindred my pacquett from Edinboro last week . . . Vee ar hear in snows
over the ears, which hinders all commerc, so that I eanot give your lordship
such relations off bussines as I eould vish.
185. George, first Duke of Gordon, to [John, Lord Strathnaver, after-
wards fifteenth Earl of Sutherland], — events following the death of
King Charles the Second. 24th February 1G85.
My dear Lord, — Severall day agon I did send acounts to your lordship off
severall particulars off his leat Majestys death, vith the proclamation of this
"king. As to your lordships behavior I thinck vow need nott cans inaek annay
proclamation until yow hear from Adam Gordon, who beeing now att Edenboro
vill certanly send north whatt may bcc nesesair att this ocatiun. A parlement is
indyted at Vestmaister to the tenth of Meay. I belive vee may have on in Scot-
land aboutt that tim. Itt is nott known who may be commissioner, butt I fancy
hee may bee sent us from Iugland. Ther ar severall alterations att the courtt.
Itts thought vee may have sum amoingst us. The Duucthes off Portsmouth is
arested att Greenvieth for forte thousand lib. she oues att London. The king
declairs he'll tack nothing from hir, butt yitt that shi most peay her debts. A
se[r]vant of Monmuths is leattly tacken, and letters going to his Grac ar inter-
cepted. Lauderdaills affair against Abberdon goes not so vcill vith him as vas
expected. Drumlenrick is sent to his Majesty by our concell. All looeks veell
and calm; I vish itt continow long so. I am intyrly, your lordships affectionat
cussing and humble servant, Gordon.
Gordon Castell, 24 Februar, [16]S5.
1685.] GEORGE, FOURTEENTH EARL OF SUTHERLAND. ID1
18C. George, fourteenth Earl of Sutherland, to his son, John, Lord
Strathnaver, — complaining that he sends no answer to his letters.
[November 1685.]
Dear SONE,— Tho I have not heard from yow of a long tyme — and that I am a
wanderer and could not have opportunity for to ureat often, and uhen I doe
ureat to you* I get no returne — yet I am glad for to hear by your mothers to
me that she hade a lyne from your good lady showing hir that she, yourself and
the children uere in good health, the knouledge of nhich did uery much refresh
me ; for as unkynd as vow are, yow are lyke to make the proverb true that love
doth descend and doth not ascend. I shall pray to the Lord he may help yow
for to nalk in his waves, and that yow and your seed may be blist and helped to
be his, and to praise him for his many mer[c]yes to us and our family, for he hath
continued us for to be a family uhen many great familyes are cutt of. Thank-
fullncs for mercyes receaved and a sutable cariadge vnder mercyes is the nay for
to get mercyes intailled on us. The Lord help us for to be humbled under the
sense of our shortcomeings in this and other commanded dutyes. I came heer
from Germany some days agoe for to bring some of my goods I left heer with
me thither, uhere I intend, if the Lord will, for to winter. And heer I have
gott a letter from your mother pitting me in hopes that she is comeing over heer
in a yaucht, uhich uill make me hover heer a litle longer to sie if I may get hir
along with me ; and with all I exspect for to hear from John Watson that yow
have payed into him the former years duty, for indeed I am straitned for the
uant of it, and yow may think that being necessitat to be abroad on the
account of my health and other occassions will requyre money; for ue can get
nothing, being strangers in a strange land and still travelling (uhich puts us to a
great charge) without hand money. Yow have made us live -percure this wheyll,
but I feed my self uith the hopes that yow will help it heerafter. I blisse the
Lord I have mett with much of Gods goodnes and kyndnes to me in my
wandnng. The Lord help me for to be observeing the loveing kyndnes of the
Lord ; and I pray yow for to blisse the Lord uith me and for me that he hath of
his infinit goodnes preserved me in health in the midst of all my wandering and
sojourneing and pilgrimadge. I pray the Lord for to blisse yow and your sueet
lady to yow, to be a blisseing unto our family, and for to traine up hir children
192 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS, [16S5.
in the fear of the Lord, and that yow and youi seed may be the Lords, and iaay
be keept in his paths, shall be the earnest wish and prayer of, dear sone, your
most affection at father, G. S. G.
My blisscing to my doughter and the sueet children, uhom I long to sie.
187. Lady Jean* "Wemyss, Countess of Sutherland, to John, Lord Stratk-
NAVER, — acquainting him with her voyage to Hotter-dam.
Roterdara, 10 November 1685.
Dear SONE, — Finding this leter of my lords 1 not gone I opend it to let yow
know that God hes brought mee safely hither in two clays from thee river of
Thams. The king and queen was pleased to favour mee with thee use of a yaght,
els I had not adventared in a merchants ship, least my heart had failed mee as
formerly. But thair Majestys was so good to mee that they granted mee a yaght
at my first motion, in which I was so well accommodate that I wanted for
nothing more then I had been in Dunrobin. Yet thee first night I was very
sick with thee boysterousnes of the sea ; but nixt day I recovered when I entred
the river of Maize, and when I found your dear father better then I expected, it
cured much of my illnes at sea. Xo sooner did ive drop anchor above the Briell
then there arose ane high and contrarj" wynd, so that if wee had not been within
land over thee flats of thee drye, wee durst not have atempted the shoar, but
behoved to have gone to thee sea againe to bee tossed on thos stormy waves.
bliss God with mee for so great a deliverance as God wrought for mee. I have
undertaken to your father that yow wilbe more carefull of performing your duety
to him in tyme coming then befor, and that yow will own his intrests and your
sisters as your own, not suffering either of them to bee abused by that ungraite
foolish man Arb fc (Arbuthnot). If yow doe this, I hope to prevaile for what yow
desyre in your leter from Kiumonoway, notwithstanding of my lords craving that
thousand marks. But labour yee to walk closely, humbly, and thankfully with
God, and then I trust all things will goe well with yow as my heart desyrs. I
1 The letter preceding this one. The letters of the Earl and Countess are both on the
same sheet of paper.
1CS7.] LADY HELEN COCHRANE, LADY STRATIIXAVKIi. \-y.\
send my service to your good lady, whos nnckle and cousinc I saw \w\\ in l.v.t'.:h
on the 4th instant, I give my blissing to the dear children, and r^ts ^I-.ir
sone), your most affeetionatt mother, J. S.
When yow come to Edinburgh bee kynd to your sister Meg, 1 and if she will
goe to Dunrobin with yow I pray yow take her.
For the Lord Strathnaver in Southerland, Scotland.
1SS. Lady Helen Cochrane, Lady Strathnaver, to her husband, Jons.
Lord Strathnaver, — family news.
Dunrobin, September 0, 1 0*7.
Dearest heart, — I reeved yours detted the 7 of this instant, and 1 am refrtshed
to know by it that it heth plesed God to preserve you in health. Since you wrnt
from this our two letel ones is as ye left them. As for my self my health is
pretey good at present, but for the spece of two days affter ye went from this
it was varey uneertan by reson of a coleck that troubled me. I have had no
leters for you, nether do I hear aney news but a report that Goerg Gordon heih
writen horn to his feather that the Imperialestes heth defeet the Turks, All the
there drofers that went out of this cuutray heth goon to the border. I have s.-nL
the half bole of meal acording to your command to the offecer of Strathllit that
from thence it mey be convoyed to Muedel. I geave wax for the sealing the &. ck
to prevent its being stolen. So wishing the Lord to gaude you so a* no iiiiqiuU-y
mey have dom[in]ion over you, I rest, dearest heart, your most atlectioimat and
obedient wife tell death,
P^s/t^Ln- 05 £r~aAii-?--L-*i^€-'<
For my Lord Strathnaver.
1 "The 'sister Meg' was Lady Margaret Kingston; no issue."— [Note by the Second
Douglas, married iu 1GSG to the Viscount Duke of Sutherland on the original letter ]
2 B
194
FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1092.
189. Lady Jean VTemyrs, Countess of Sutherland, to [Lady Katharine
Hamilton, Lady Murray],— search for winter quaiters at Falkland. 1
Clampom, 23 March 1G92.
MADAtt,— I hope your goodnes will pardon thee trouble I now give you. Many
things are fallen out very contrary to my expectasion since I saw your ladyship,
yet I hope God will order all things for hU own glory and Ids peopls good in
thee end. 1 have thoughts of coming home in May nixt, and tho 1 purpose to
resyde at thee Abaye in thee sumcr tyrne, yet thee rooms are so high rooft and
cold that they are very inconvenient fur winter, therfor I am seeking for some
warmer habitasion. If I can find one amongst my friends in Fyfe, 1 wold gladly
resyde ther from September till March were over; and for this end I wrote to
one in Falkland, to trye if that house that is calrd my Lord Stormonts were in
repaire, having thee ruofe, floors and windows tight, with coach house and stabls
to it. 'i voldbe content to take it for a year or 2, and paye rent for it, and if it
was not fit, I desyrd to try if thee lodgings over against thee palace were to bee
let, and I wold take one of them. Thee answer] I have gotiu is, that Stormonts
lodgings are faulty in thee roof, floors and windows, and that thee lodgings oposite
to thee° palace are all full, only that I may have a house for my friend that is in
a nianer out of town, which I doe not like ; for I let not any know that it is for
my self, save your ladyship, and I request your ladyship to let non know my
inclination in this, least I bee not able to perform it. For if all this lodgings bee
as that gentleman says they are, then I shall not find a lodging in Falkland,
unles your lord and you can spare us ane apartment in thee palace without
' incomadating your self, which I wilbe loath to desyre to give 'your ladyship the
least of trouble by it, tho to injoye your desyrable converss, and my good Lady
Kothes, my sister, my aunt Euthven, and thee rest of my friends in Fyfe, is thee
chiefe indicement that draws my inclinations ther. But if I cannot obtaine it,
I will reverence providence in it. Thee bearer of this, Mr. Gedy, knows not for
whom I am seeking lodgings in Fyfe, only that it is for a friend and relation of
your ladyships. I shall add no more at present but my lords humble service and
my own to your ladyship and your nobl lord. I rest, dear madam, your ladyships
faithfull, affectionat and most humble servant, J. W. SUTHERLAND.
I give my blissing to your dear babies.
i Original letter in the Athole Charter-chest
1692.]
LADY JEAN JTE2IYSS, COUNTESS OF SUTHERLAND. li»3
Dear madam, let mee have your answere as soon as is possible, and fn-nd it lu
Mr Gertdy or Mr. Hutchison that keeps my lords lodgings in thee Aba\v, and
they will send it in thee black box to mee ; for I should begin my jourm-y
homward about 3 weeks hence.
190 Lady Jean Wemyss, Countess of Sutherland, to [Lady Kathauini:
Hamilton, Lady Murray],— requesting the use of her coaeh-hou*o at
Holy rood Abbey. 1
London, 12 May 1CU2.
Dfvr Mvdui,— I received the honour of yours, and returns your ladyship my
hearty thanks fur your kyudnes exprest therm. I am sorie that the house is
douu and ruinM that I intended to have been your tenent in. Some of my
acquaintance there gives mee hop's yet. There is a house in thee other end of
that town that may bee able to accomodate my Title forailly m thee winter tyrae ;
for thee most parte of smner I may lodge in thee Abaye. If your ladyship can
alowe mee some place in your coach house to put my coateh in, its all thee favour
I wolld request for; for that house which is recomended to mee hath non tho it
hath a stable and ane hay loaft. I think I am near a period of my days, and thei tor
I wold gladly bee amongst iny friends and relations, and near the bunall plare o
my ancestors; for if I were at Falkland, I wold bee near your ladyship, my goo*
Lady Hotl.es, and my sister, as also my friends and relations in Burly* ami
Frecland and other places in Fyfe where severalls of my cousine germans are
and its but a short way to carie my bodie from thenee to thee Wemyss, whrr 1
desyre to bee interr'd. Your brother, Lord George, took leave of thee Queen 1 -
days agoe, intending over to Flanders, wher his new regment lys. Hee w*ite
nice the night befor hee" went. I indeavourd to perswade him to rcsyde hoer till
liee gote som more flesh upon him, but hee said that his doctors ad vis d him to
goe abroad, as a mean to put away his eholicks. I wish it may prove so, for hee
is one of thee bravest men wee have, which hee hath given great proofs off in
Irland, and if God spare him hee wilbee a great man and ane honour to Ins
nation. As for news I hear the French that was intending to invade England are
driven back to France, and are gone ashoar againe since they heard thee English
fleet was out, and thee Dutch join'd with them. They make up a navie of eighty-
* Original letter in the Athole Charter-chest.
100
FAMILY AND DOMESTIC LETTERS.
[1092.
fvve ships of wair; and thee French navie is out also, and are much about thee
same number. If thee Lord bee with us, wee need not fear what man can doe
against us ; but sin is thee procuring cause of all thee evils wee groan under.
I fear it will yet bee 3 weeks or a month or I can leave this place, so if your
ladyship will let mee hear of your own health and your lord and childrin's, it
will contribute much to the satisfaction off, dear madam, your ladyships most
affectionatt humble servant, J. W. Southerland.
I had almost forget to tell you that ther are many put up for a late dis-
covered plott, and ther are warrands out for more. My Lord Southerland gives
his humble service to your ladyship and your lord, whose humble servant I am.
191. Lady Jean AYEirYSs, Countess oe Sutherland, to Anne, Duchess oe
Hamilton, — condolences with her on the death of AVilliam, Duke of
Hamilton, her husband. 1
Abbey, 24 Apryle 1G94.
May it please your Grace to pardon this trouble I now give yow, since it is
only to express some part of thee simpathie I have with your grace in your
present too great cause of grife, and to indeavour to comfort yow with thes
comforts wherewith God comforted my soull when I was under thee lyke deplorable
lose of one of the best of husbands and a most gratious man, who did exhort mee
quhen dyeing not to mourn as thos that had no hope, but to comfort myself with
the faith of the resurrection, quhen wee should meet againe never to part any
more, and bad mee consider that it was the hand and decree of the great
Soveraine of heaven and earth, agaiust whom if I murmured ther was nothing
to bee expected but another blow either upon my persoue or thos poor orphans
that hee left behiud him. Dear madam, reflect upon the words of that gratious
man who walked closely with God in his life, yet had a sad conflict with Satau
at his death, and obtain'd a comfortable and gratious ishew. Thee perswasion I
had that it was well with him eternally was that which first dryed up my tears,
together with the consideration of thos excellent counsels hee gave me ; and thee
belief I had that God wold make up all to mee in himself stopt the currant of
1 Original letter ia Hamilton Charter-chest.
1C96.] JOUy, LORD STRATIIXAVER. 107
my sorrows. And by experience I may say that a quiet submission to the will of
God under thee sadist of tiyals is that which is the duety and will prove the
advantage of evry gratious soull. • If it could console your Grace to know that I
and many thousands besyds mee hath sonwfull hearts for the lose of that
excellent persone whom God hath taken from yow to himself, sure yow might
bee comforted ; for ther is no gratious persone in this 3 kingdoms but will lament
for him as a publick lose to his king, his conntrye, and his friends, and non will
n-joyce at it hut thos that are enimys to all those. Consider, I bescek your
Grace, that hee is gone to bed but a litle befor yow, and that yow cannot stay
long behind him. Yet it may bee very necessary for the good of your illistrowss
familly that yow stay a litle whyle behynd him, and to help to put on the cape-
ston on that noble structure that hee did so couragiously begine, in. canting on
the work of reformation and casting out that accursed prelacie that was the bane
of this nation for 30 years befor the late happie revolution came, which will
perpetuat his fame to all posterirye. It may bee some will count mee officious for
thos lyn's, yet since 1 wryte them out of the profound respect I have to your
Graces wclfaire and his memorie, which shall ever live in my heart, I have sent
thos. I was denyed the favour to see him, and tho' I waited long at his chamber
dore, and was not acquainted as others were to waite on him that night as others
did, yet I can say I continued to pray for him ever till 1 heard hee was removed,
so that I watched for him tho' not with him that night, which was thee last duety
could bee performed by, madam, your Graces most humble and obedient servant,
J. \V, SOUTUERLAND.
For her Grace the Dutches of Hamilton, thes.
102. John, Lord Strathnaver [address wanting],— that a court-martial had
acquitted him. 1
Bridges, 22 October 1G9C.
Sir, — I gave yow the trouble of a line informing yow how one, Captain Key,
in my regiment, had brought me befor a counsel of war, befor "whom I justified
1 This and the following letter are con- letters of Lord Strathnaver, afterwards Earl
tained in an envelope on which is written John, given to me by Mr. David Dundas.
l>y the second Duke of Sutherland : " Two December 1S40. S."
198 FAMILY AND DOMESTIC LETTERS. [169G-
my self and made out such tilings against Mm as convinced them that he was
not fitt Lo serve the king. The sentence is bent to his Majestic, and I hope he
will doe me the justice tq, confirm it. As I wrote to vow before, I recomend to
the company Arthur Steuart, a near kinsman of my oun, Hugh Boyd to be
ensign collonel, and Gilbert Young to be ensign to Captain Home. I hear that
none are suffered to goe over without liberty from court. My affaires doe
extremly require my presence at home. I hope yow will be soe kind as to
purchase me my liberty over. I hope yow will be pleased to remember what I
wrote to yow in my former letters, and belive me to be sincerly, sir, your most
affectionat humble servant,
Direct to me at Bridges.
193. John, Lord Stratum aver [address wanting], — proceedings of the court-
martial. 24 October 1097.
SlK, — I have receaved the honour of yours of the 1G from Dieren, and cannot
enough acknowledge my sense of your favor and freiudship. Yow wold oblidge
me if yow wold lett me know wher my affair stopes. Did the king ever read
the procedings of the court martiall '? My licutenaut-collonell accuses me of having
the regiments money, and soe the occassion of the mutiny. I prove that the time
of the mutiny he was overpayed 2800 gilders, and I uuderpayed 3732 gilders.
I also made out against him that he had of the regiments money in his hands,
the time the mutiny hapned, more then wold pay the sojers, and wold not doe it,
nor yett speake to them to prevent it, notwithstanding that the officiers sent the
adjutant to him desiring him to doe it. Having made out all thir things soe
clearly that all against me is found false and malicious and he broke, yett to
see the sentence not confirmed, is but small incouragment to serve, and but ane
indifferent requittall for my fathers services and mine to see a litle fellow put in
the ballance with me and the opinion of thirteen honest gentlemen vpon ther
honour and oath. Captain Swintoun, whom I have sent to Loo, can infonne
1704.] LADY JEAX WEMYSS, COUSTESS OF SUT1IEELAXD. 100
row more particularly then it is proper for me to trouble vow here. I beg pardon
fur what I have done already, "which I had not done did not my honour ly at
stake. I recomend Captain Swintoun to your favour, and am -with a great deal
of respect and esteem, sir, your most oblcidged and most humble servant,
Stratiinaver.
Ghent, 24 October 1G97.
101. Lady Jean Weuyss, Countess Dowager of Sutherland, to George,
first Earl of Crojiartie, Aliment of her grandchildren. 1
Abbey, Jully 5th, 1704.
My Lord, — I am constraint to forbear my addressing to the Counsell anent the
poor orphans, my grandchildren, their additionall aliment, hoping that when my
sone, Southerland, comes here, and some other freinds that I expect, your lordship
may find the busieness more easie to obtain then at present it would bo. 1 think
my adversaries are affraid of your lordship, for since I was with yow they have
pay'd me the ordinary aliment that the Counsell modefied to the children severall
years ago, tho' it has not afforded poor John a farthing to buy cloaths, or any
necessary for him this year and a halfe bygone, so that I have bein forced to
furnish him my selfe with all necessarys during that tyme. But I hope the
Counsell will ordain Arbuthnott to doe better things, so that his only brother
may have meatt, cloathing, and education, which is all I petition for in his
behalfe. Wheu my sone, Southerland, comes, I hope your lordship will give him
that freindly counsell to give me my oun in peace and without delay, which will
be his oun advantage and his children's. I had not tyme to tell your lordship
that, wpon what your lady, my dear sister, wrot to me of your lordships being
active for the good of the Church of Scottland, I made many glad, for I told it to
as many as came to visit me, and they were well pleas'd to hear of it; so I hope
your lurdship will act so as to convince all that what I told them was truth. I
beseech your lordship to haue a speciall care of your health now, when my sister
is fan* from yow. Give my humble and affectionate service to her, and beleive
me that I am, in all sincerity, my lord, your lordships most affectionate humble
servant, J. W. Southerland.
1 Original letter in the Cromartie Charter-chest.
200 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1705.
195. [John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to Juiin, second Duke of
Argyll], — that he intended to retire from public life. Draft.
Duurobin, ISth Juue 1705.
May IT please your Grace,— I have had the honour of ynur Graces letter of the
6 th, and as I still valued my self upon the proofes your Grace was pleased to give me
of your favor and freiudship, I shall alhvayes esteem it my happiness to waite the
continuance of them. As to what Mr. Martin of Harwoud wrote to me, your Grace
were pleased to give him a hint of a discourse that passed concerning my sones
regiment. Your Grace may assure yourself that I but looked vpon it, as I still
doe, a storie calculated for the meridian of the insueing parliament and to create
your Grace enimies. Be upon your guard, aud expect a great many such squibs.
True freinds were still valuable, and never more then in this age and at this
juncture, and the precariousnes of our ministry does not a litle contribute to it.
For my part I envy none of ther plaices, being most of them such as I could not
with a safe conscience accept of, in (sens of my own unfittnes) l being able to
discharge the duty of the post, and I am (was still) under a firm resolution never
to receave a pension. In shoit, my late inexpressably great loss lies made me
very indifferent of the world. I have (t thank God) a competaucy to live a
retired life vpon, though the soldier trade by not being justly payed (the pub-
licks not paying me), and being to much att court (London) hes impaired my
fortune not a litle. Soe that now, unless to serve my queen, country, or freind,
I resolve never to stur out of Sutherland. I hope your Grace will impute my
disorderly way of writting to the right cause, and belive me to be, with all
respect and sincerity.
I think it my duty to acquaint your Grace that ther is ane affair to be in
befor the Counsell the 25 iustant, in which the laird of Bishopmiln, sherrive
principall of Murray, appears against one Baillie Stuart, late of Elgin, for his
fiscall, who was illegally imprissoned by the said baillie, who is -ane ennimie both
to the goverment of church and state. The commissioners of Murray, Nairn,
and Invernes shire (severall other members of parliament) write in Bishopmilns
behalf, and he carried it in Counsell. If now, under your Graces administration,
that matter goes othenvayes than it did, it will not be weel looked upon by a
great many of your Graces freinds and servants. Since what I have written pro-
ceeds from my sincer affection to your Grace, yow'l please to excuse me.
1 The words placed witliin parentheses are interlined in the original.
1705.] JOIIX, FIFTEENTH EARL OF SUTHERLAND. 201
19G. [John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to Lady Elizabeth Talmasii,
Duchess Dowager of Argyll],— regarding his sou's regiment. [18th
June] 1705. Draft.
Mat it please your Grace, — Your Graces letter, with my Lord Commissioners
inclosed, gave me, with the account I had of your healths from others, as much
satisfaction as the desconsulatnes of my circumstances could admitte of, which I
hope will plead my excuse with the Commissioner and your Grace for what
escapes and faultes my letters may be stuffed with. I was not wanting, as I
came north, to press Grant and his lady as much as possible to wait upon your
Grace att Edinburgh upon this occasion, but could not observe any great influence
my arguments had ; yett shall not give over to doe what I can still to persuade.
Yuur Grace may remember that I was resolved to have Stricken and his two
brothers under my oun inspection and tuition here ; yett since the Earl of JMorray
desired to have Sandie, and that your Grace and his mother when I spoke to her
did both approve of it, I shall submitt my own inclinations to what may be for
the benefite of the youth. I thank God Tommie and he are both very hopeful!,
but of tempers vastly different, he being as sedate as Tommie is jovial!, but both
the quietest children that ever were in a family. If Grant and I cannot agree as
to Strichen I shall willingly make your Grace umpire. I send the Commissioners
letter open to your Grace to peruse and seal. The story that was putt about was
that in the juncto att the Abby it was proposed that my sones regiment should be
given to my Lord Tullibarden, and that his Grace the Commissioner went alongst
with it. Your Grace will find what credite I gave to it by the inclosed. I have
troubled the Commissioner, your Grace, yea myself, more with the affair then it
docs deserve; but I shall indeavor to gett to the fountain ; for abstracting from
the Commissioners being your Graces sone, and that I had once the happines to
be married to his aunt, ther is none for whom ever I had a greater personall
value, and he shall be ill advised, and not follow the dictates of his own sense
and reason which God hes plentifully endued him with, and your Grace shall
think soe to if I dont stand by him. God direct him in the great' post he is in.
Wee have the misfortune in this poor kingdome to have few places and many
pretenders, soe that of course the greatest part who aim att preferments must be
desobleidged. The thing I most regrait is that to to many cover ther Jacobitish
2 C
202 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [170G.
and self interested designes with the some much desirable name of country. I
hope to pay my duty to your Grace in ten dayes time if it please God, and shall
till then delay apologizing for my letter. Your Graees nephews are vreel, and I
am sincerly, madam,
I must intreat your Grace to indeavor that till I eome up your son doe
nothing in the affair of Bishopmiln and Baillie Stuart, nor yett in that of the
Conservator; and I hope by your Graces advice matters may goe for his Graces
honour and reputation.
197. John, Lord Somers, to John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, —
regarding certain articles of the Treaty of Union.
London, November 25, 170G.
My Lord, — I acknowledge with great thankfulncs the honour of your lordships
letter of the 16th instant, and I congratulate your lordship vpon the suceesse
mentiond in it, and vpon that which has since folio wd in passing the third
article. I hope, mj lord, there will be all possible care vsed to prevent altera-
tions in the articles. The fishing, if I may say so, is the interest of England as
well as of Scotland, and therefore I hope you will not distrust vs irr it. The
drawbacks desired are so directly founded vpon the reason of our own laws that
nothing reasonable can be said against it while that is allowd here; but surely
matters of trade, which are always to change vpon circumstances, should not be
part of a treaty which is always to remain. While a praemium is allowd to any
corn exported, it must be allowd to the great product of one part of the Ynited
Kingdom as well as of the other. But than if it he to be made a part of the
treaty it must necessarily make an alteration in the Equivalent, the premium
being paid out of the customs, and the customs on the part of England being
computed on the neat proceed, after deduction of the allowances of those
premiums and all other outgoings. I beg your lordship to consider how this
Equivalent can be stated anew, and to help vs all you can. I have obeyd your
lordships commands in the matter you mentiond, and had an answer as full of
respect to your lordship as could be expected, but withall it was said that nothing
of that kind could be don at present. I am with all truth and respect, my lord,
your lordships most humble and most obedient servant, Somers.
170S.] JOIIX, LORD SOMERS. 203
108. Sir Wilijam Ashurst, a commissioner of excise, to JonN, fifteenth
Earl or Sliuehlakd, — the Treaty of Union.
London, G March 1706-7.
Mv Lord, — 1 was honoured with yours of lGth January, which brought me the
acceptable news of the articles of union being ratifyd in your Parliament. I
hope your lordship will pardon my not owning its receipt sooner, being desirous
to deferr it till I could returne your lord-ship an account that the same thing was
done here. This day the queen came to the House of Lords and gave the royall
assent to the bill for confirming the articles of union, upon which all the guuns
round the Tower were immediatly discharged. This bill has been carried in our
house by a great majority, 277 against US, besides the speaker, which would
have been on our side, and in the House of Lords the negatives were only 19 upon
the last division upon the debates about the bill, by which your lordship will
easily perceive how well affected the honestest and wisest part of the kingdome
are to an union of the two kingdomes. Give me leave now, my lord, to call your
lordship my countryman and to congratulate myself of being a Erittaine, and, my
lord, your lordships most obedient and most humble servant,
Wii. Ashhurst.
The queen was pleased to make a speech at the passing of the bill, recom-
mending an union of affection between the two kingdomes, and recommended it
to our House to make provision for the money to be paid, which upon our
returne to the House and the report of the queens speech by the speaker, the
House resolved to go to-morrow morning upon considering of ways to answer
that sum.
To the right honourable the Earl of Sutherland, Edinburgh.
190. John, Lord Sojiers, to John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, —
expressing regret that his lordship bad not been returned as a representa-
tive peer.
London, 22 July 1708.
My Lord, — Having lately bin ill of a feaver, I have recovered so slowly tbat
I have not till this time bin capable of answering the letter which I had the
honour to receive from you. It is not easy for mee to expresse how much I was
204 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1708.
concernd when I came to vnderstand your lordship was not of the number of
the peers returnd, and I am sure many of your lordships humble servants here
were very sensibly toueh'd at it. But wee think, your lordships numbers con-
sidered, and the weight of several of the protestations which were made at the
time of the election, wee shall not fail of having the honour of your company in
the House. The protestations as to the proxies of the Earl of Aberdene aud the
Lord Salton, as likewise those against the Lord Forrester and the Earl of Bred-
albin, wee think will hold (not to mention others), which must be more than
sufficient to let in your lordship. Some of vs who have met in this town have
bin talking together vpon the subject of the election of the peers, and have trans-
mitted our present thought3 therevpon more largely to the Earl of Marchmont,
from whom wee reeeivd an account of the grounds vpon which several of the
protestations were founded. I would most willingly haue sent the same to your
lordship, but that I was not able to transcribe them, and would not trust any-
body else to make a copy. But I depend vpon it he will readily communicate
the whole to your lordship. I have given your salutations to the several lords
named in your letter, who desired mee to assure you they are your most humble
servants. I assure your lordship I am, with all true respect, my lord, your lord-
ships most obedient and most humble servant, Somers.
200. Lady Jean Sutherland, wife of James, Lord Maitland, (address want-
ing, but probably to Katharine, Lady Strathnaver), — family news.
8th March 1711.
Dear ilADAii, — I think my self oblidg'd to acqwaint your ladyship that my
Lord Arbnthnott is to goe out of toun to morowe. He hes taken leave of us,
but my Lady Southerland is so moueh incens'd that she wold not see him. She
and I both are much out of countinance at this unluckie business, but ther is
nothing the ocasion of it, but his fathers relations pretends they ar slighted in
offering less mony to my Lord Arbnthnott then what Prestongrange gave my
Lord Boill, and likewise Prestongrange slightfed] them in goeing out of tonn.
This is what they say, but I shall be far from otfering to justify them, for I
think they have done most unworthily. They propose that if Prestongrang wold
condishend to give the fifty thousand marks at on payment, they wold be
1711]
SMOX, LOUD LOT AT.
20o
satisfy M with it. My Lady Southerland says site will not take it upon her to
tle*.'>e Prestongrang and your ladyship to doe this, but she wold be very glad to
have the match goe on, and hes realy ben very undisposd with the grife and
vexsation she hes got in this affaire. I hop you will forgive this trouble, and
belive it is my eoncern for your family as well as for my cousin which maks me
doe it, for I am, dear madam, your affectiouat humble servant,
J. Maitlaxd.
Madam, I belive you will not get this confus'd ill writ letter read.
humble serviss to Mr. Jean.
Abby, March Sth, 1711.
My
201. Simon, Lord Lovat, to John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, —
expressing his resolution to spend his life for the royal family of Hanover.
2d December 1714.
My Lord, — The honour I have of being related to your lordship and the con-
stant friendship that hes allwayes been betwixt your lordships family and mine,
makes me presum to ashure your lordship of my most humble and dutyfull
respect, and humbly beg of your lordship to grant me your protection and friend-
ship at the court, for which I have suffered in Franee thir twelve yeares bypast
all that the malice of hell and wieked men could invent; and sine, 1 bless God, I
am hapily out of their power, and fully resolv'd to expose- my life for the royalle
family of Hanover, I hope their is none who wish the king and government well
but should wish to see me at the head of my elan, where your lordship knows I
may be of good use to the government, sine by all apearanee its there the
pretender will make his first attempt. I know that if your lordship would be so
good as to represent the usefullness of my being in Inverness^ shire to the Duke of
Argyle and to my Lord Isla, sine your lordship knows that eountery better than
any nobleman at court, I doubt not but they would eoneur with your lordship
in getting my remission, that 1 may be of use to the government before the pre-
tender does come, which may be sooner than the court thinks of; and your lord-
ship knows that if he is once master of the north he will destroy all those who
will not join him, or are known well affected to the present government, and may
march with a powerfull army to the south, sine their are no standing forces to
2CG FAMILY ASD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1714.
oppose him, and that they canot march nor be transported to that countcry in
such a short tymc a.s can hinder him to be master of that countery, so that the
court should strenthen their friends in that part to resist him at his lauding, for
the danger is much greater than they seem to think of.
The laird of Fowls, to whose generous friendship I am mightily oblidg'd, will do
me the honour to tell your lordship the nature of ane adrease that is to be pre-
sented to the king to implore his Majestyes clemency for me. I fear it will come
too late, and that my enemys will prevent the eficct of it; and its very hard,
sine my personal enemys are known enemys to the house of Hanover. I beg
your lordahip's concurence and your friends and relations to that adresse, and your
lonlship will ever find mc with all duty-full respect, affection, and acknowledg-
ment, my lord, your lordships most fathfull and most obedient humble servant,
j%m^
The 2 cf Decembre 17U.
202. Simon, Lord Lovat, to John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, — begging
him to use his influence with Sir David Dairy mple. No date, circa 1714.
My most dear and noble Lord, — My kinsman having rushd in to see me, I beg
leave to tell your lordship that I am most sensible that if my life or family are
saved, it is to your lordship as my main protector I owe it. Both life and
family shall be yours while they exist, sine all depends on Sir David Dalrimples
report. I beg your lordship may prevail with him to be favourable. He should
do it if he loves the king and government, and his family hes no obligations to
the family of Athol or to the Mackenzies. My life, my lord, is in your hands,
and my other good friends. I pray God reward and preserve you. I am in
duty and respect, tho in confusion, your lordships forever, LOVAT.
I beg your lordship may ask me out on beal, if nothing els do for me.
I thank your lordship for your protection to the bearer.
To the right honourable the Earle of Sutherland.
1715 .] SIMON t LORD LOT AT. 207
203. Simon-, Lord Lovat, to John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland,— that
his life and fortune depended on the Earl's favour. 30th April 1715.
My Lord,— I presume to assure your lordshipe of my most humble duty and
respects, and send you my cusing, the hearer, to let your lordshipe know how
glad I am of your safe arival at London. Tho the adresses in my favours are
come up a month ago, and that most of my friends are hero sine the latter end
of March, yet they did not think it fit to push anything for me till they should
have your lordshipe at their head as the most leading man in the north ; and
since the king and his ministers should give intire trust to your lordshipe, and
rely more on your knowledge and advice as to what belongs to the north, than to
the knowledge of the ministers of state themselves, who canot have it but by
information, while your lordshipe knows all by your self. So my friends would
not put my husines on the tapis without your lordshipes presence ; and now, my
lord, not July my life, but the standing or fall of the name of Fraser is at your
lordshipes mercy, and I am convine'd that you will be so good as to save the ono
and the other, sine it is a most essential service to the present constitution, and
that your lordshipe will to eternity find me and my clan ready to ventur our
lives for you and yours, and that nothing will ever diminish in me the love and
dutyfull respect with which I am, my lord, your lordships most affectionat cusing
and most obedient humble servant, Lovat.
At London, the 30th of Apryle 1715.
204. Simon, Lord Lovat, to John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland,—
expressing his entire trust in the Earl's protection. 7th September 1715.
RIGHT honorable and my dearest lord,— I am truly ashamed of the continual
trouble I give your lordshipe, but sine you are my chief support, I hope, my
lord, that you will pardon my importunityes. I am told that your lordshipe is
to be with the ministers off state this morning. I therefore humbly beg, my
dear lord, you may be pleas'd to get some positive answer of me from them ; for
if your lordshipe goes away before their is anything done for me I will look on
myself as in a desperat condition. I trust intirly to your lordshipes generous
heart for the good of the government and for the standing of my poor kindred
208 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1715.
and family, ond if ever they have a being they, as well as I, are bound to be your
lordships most fat h full and zealous servants, as those who are at the gates of
Dounrobin. I beg your lordship may be intirly perswaded that my life will
sooner end than my duty full acknowledgment for your lordships goodness towards
me, and that you will find mc while I breath, with zeal and ane infinit respect,
my dearest lord, your lordships most oblidged, most fathfull, and most obedient
cusing and humble servant, Lovat.
London, the 7 of Septembre 1715.
205. Letter without Signature or Address, probably an intercepted letter —
Proceedings at Blair on the passage of Mar's army. 1715. Draft.
Madaji, — I hade yours of Frydayea date, more particular in neus then what
I can returne. The history of the Duke of Athole is as fulloues. His Grace
conveend eight hunderd men to Blair to opose my Lord Marr on Fry day last. He
hade them in three lynes befor his gate with there oficers on there head, and
went to dinner and left his men in rank and fyle under arms. In the mean tynre
they obscrvd the Marquess of Tullibardin passing, wherat they gave a loud husa,
and 300 deserted in the companys towards the marquess, and the rest droopt off
by dozens aud scors, whereat the gentlemen, being as it seemed surprysd att the
revolt of there men, presently told his Grace there men would not obey orders, but
brok off in wholl companies. His Grace, being just sett to dinner, rose in passion
and run out, mounted his horse and made up to the diserters, who plainly denayd
to serve him on any teams, if he did not joync to restor the king and the king-
dome to its antient independant liberty, llis Grace in passion took a gun from
on standing by him and fyrd att them and brock a poor fidlers bou hand. His
French page fyrd his pistolls but did noe great hurt. A sturdy fellou turning
on his Grace begd he might returne and take care of his life presently or els ,
qnhairat his Grace rcturnd and cryd lik a chyhle, his men still dropping of to the
marquess, who putt himself att the head of the diserters. Alt the landed vasells
waited of his Grace without there men to receaue his commands. He orderd
Lood to be secured and Fincastle, because there men went off in a body, judgeing
they winkd att the revolt. In short its expected his Grace lies noe more company
to attend him but her Grace and some feu of uo use upon the Georgian lay.
1716.] JOILV, FIFTEENTH EARL OF SUTHERLAND. 209
The marquess hes joyud the kings army. Strouan marches off this da}'. The
tno coropanyes that his Grace sent to Perth to gaurd that place, are brought to
the camp, and there oficers, Urrard and Gay, made prisoners. Innerness is taken
by M'lntosh, who euterd the toun on syde with 600 men, and Mr. Campbell, Sir
Archibald Campbells soue, with 300 of Caddells men, on the other syde, and hes
secured a great deall of arms and amouition for the kings use. The Earle of Mar
with the army encamped att Fittclochery in Atholl yesterday about tuo acloak.
The army is suposd to be att least 4000 foot and 800 horse. Seaforth, M'lntosh,
Glengary, the Frazers, and the Oglivies, the Rosses, and severall northern clans,
are all on there march, and the Highlands to the northwest are all ready and
gome of them moveing. The neus papers are sent to [a] freind by my lord, but
theyl be returnd when I gett them with what more ntus occurrs from the camp ;
and be sure to send what neus ye gett by this boy with the printts if they be
come. I doe not doubt if yee was Dutches of Marlborrou besydes being Duke ye
would act your parte. If wishes hade done it, as you would have, George never
hade gott the croun, and you hade been a lady of a plentyfull fortoun ; but tyme
and Tro\idence determins all, aud all must wait it, and soo must you. Adue,
Madam, your very oblidged servant.
Birne this.
206. John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to Katharine, Lady Strath-
navek, — health of William, Lord Strathnaver, her husbaud. 6th March
1716.
Dear Madam, — I have given all the good advice I can to my son. If God
Almighty enable him to perform as weel as he undertakes, it will be a blessing
and a great satisfaction to me, and I am sure great contentment to you. I have
discharged him of two hundred and fiftie poundes of the tack duty, in considera-
tion of the great zeal he has showen att this juncture for the service of his king
and country and the expenses he has been att. He ha3 promised me to take a
diet drink for cleansing his blood. It did me a great deal of good and cures the
scurvy. He may drink a pint of it in the day, three mutchkius is enough, and
he may drink half a mutehkin of cherry, att most a mutchkin, and noe malt
liquor, brand ie, or clarett for three weekes constantly, and rise early in the morn-
2 D
210
FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTER*. [1710.
in- and walk about. Moderate cxcei-cise is good. He is to bring the ingredient,
from Iiiverr.es, and Mrs. Bronn can make it. They take att the apotl.ecarys two
shillings or half a eroun the chopin, and yon can make for less than the filth part.
I intreat you may keep him to the drinking of it. I dont know when may see
your ladyship, therfor I must tell you it was a great greif to mo to [see] the nestle
pickle in which the house of Du[n]robin was by keeping servants that minded
nothing, and knows not what belongs to declines, so that your best furniture
goes to nought, which is more worth than many years wages to a good servant,
wold have you keep none but good dilligcnt servants, kit tl.cr fee be what it pleases.
I shall say more bv my next. I am very vexed to be kceped here thirtwo dayes
by gone expecting the hogshead of ale and the other things my son write for ; if
the boat be not already come off lett it immediately be dispatched, and I will
come of off Duurobin to reccave it aboard. I. pray God. to preserve you and the
hopefull children. I am, with sincere respect, dear daughter, your ^ectionat
father and most humble servant, uthehland.
Queenbrough in Cromartie Eoad, Gth March 1710.
The boat will see the ship att sea and may come towards us.
207. StuoN, Lord Lovat. to John, fifteenth Eabl of Sutherland,-
disarming the Mackenzie; Fraserdale's remission, etc. 21st March 1,10.
MY deaf. LOKD.-I hope by this tyme your lordship is tally arrived at London.
I wish with all my soul it may be in good health, and that your lordship may
injoy with pleasure the reward that your zeal and services deserve; and sine
their was no body under your lordships commands that did more assiduusly obey
your orders than my self and kindred I am fully perswaded that your lordship
will do ns justice both with the king, prince, the Duke of Malborugh, and the
ministers, and particularly to General Stanhope, who is the minister I look on as
my patron and friend,
I went out the last week with Major General Wightman to obhdge all SeaforU
people this side of the high hills to bring in ther arms, and by a l.tle chute we
had on the hill of Torahilie above Contine, where my men took some of the rebels
and their arms, Major General Wightman hes seen the necessity of having loyal
hWilanders to reduce the rebels.
1710.]
SI2IOX, LORD 10 VAT. 21 r
I have wrot a detail of this to Sir William Gordon, so that I will not trouble
your lordship with it. I have taken the Earl of Cromarty and Mckenzie of
Inchcouter prisoners by Major General Wightmaus orders, and that fastens all
the low countevy McKenzies. I will send to your lordship by the next post a
list of all the McKenzies and Frasers who have been rebels and how have lands
to loose. I hope your lordship will be so good to me and to my kindred, who
all love and respect your lordship infinity that you will use your indeavour o
stop Fraserdales remission or possession of my forefathers estate, winch would
a-«n expose both me and my people to ruin, and as we may be useful to the
kin- so we shall be fathfull servants to your lordships person and illustrous
posterity. I have such experience of your lordships goodness and friendship that
I will never doubt of it, let people say what they will to perswad me otherwayes,
and if your lordship will now improve my services to establish my family as you
have done me the honor to promise many tymes, your lordship will find me and
mine as ready to serve you, 1'epee a la main, as those at the gates of Dunrobin
and I will remain, while I breath, with my ordinary zeal and a profond respect,
my dear lord, your lordships most affectionat cusing and most obedient and most
* LOVAT.
humble servant,
Inverness, the 21 of March 171G.
My poor brother assures your lordship of his last respects for he is so danger-
ously ill with a fever, flux, and stiches that their is litle or no hopes of his
recovery. He was a good natured and brave young fellow, and a zealous servant
of your lordships. His fatigue and drinking this vinter and suden quitting of it
hes kill'd him. I wish with my soul that my dear Lord Stranaver may give over
Ids drinking in some measure, otherwayes he canot live, and it were a thusand
thnsand pityes for a man of honor and good sense ; and I am sure his lordship
is as dear to me as my own only brother. I have been ill too sine I saw your
lordship, and I am affraid my constant fatigue will make ane end of me. But
I hope I will receave some marks of the kings favour before I dy, and that his
Majesty will, take care of my family, for General Stanhope lies 'done me the
honor to writ me a most gracious letter by his Majestyes direction.
I hope your lordship will do all you can for poor Tanahy Tulloh, the first
who did submitt himself. He is caryd south and hes not how to subsist.
2 1 °
/UJf/Zr ,LV/> DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1716.
My Lord Hollo and Uetbune of Balfour recommends themselves to your
lordships protection. , ,-,
If your lordship could, without much trouble, save the live, of Hugh Eraser
of Buchrnbine, who was truly forced out, and Robert Shaw of Tordarah, a W
of mine, it would bo a lasting obligation on their fnends who are loya to _«r
Soveraign. But I plead for no rebels further than your lordship shall hink
fit and charitable, and for the good of the government For I would not
plead to save my brother from hanging if I thought it would be prejud.c.able to
tie present government and hapy constitution for which I .am stdl ready to
VeD Sb JoV/jfLean, mv full cosing germain, who rendred himself prisoner to
your lordship at Castle Gordon, is dead eight dayes ago. The ofheer hes taken his
purse of about forty gincas, his gold wach, his pistol s, sword and horses. ^ f
your lordship would be so kind as send me ane order from Genera Stanhope
bat 1 might receave those things from the officer or commander-in-chief h re I
would take it as a singular favour, especially his arms and wach , tho truly no
body but your lordship hes right to either his gold or any thing ■ d. he had. His
trunks, and all that was in them are keepd by Jlajor-Gcneral \\ ightman) order.
208. SlMON, LOUD LOYAT, to AV.LI.IAM, LORD STRATHNAVER-that his
remission as Lord Lovat had passed the great seal. 3d April 1.16.
MY dm* Lo«D,-I presume to assure your lordship, my Lady Stranaver and
all the noble o[n> P ring, of my most humble duty I cougra tulat ^j*
of the glorious and great reception the Earl of Sutherland had a Londom The
Duke of Malborow,2 secretarys of state, all the squadtone and many English
nobility, came to visit him to his own house, and he is to have g«.t rewards for
his services, and what I have done is only to bo rewarded according as , hi. lord-
ship represents my services, which gives me good hopes I am sure if my dear
Lord Stranaver were with his father that he would push h.mtodofor Lovat,
and I am sure my dear earle will do for me without any solicitation.
I am sure my dear Lord Stranaver will not be ill pleasd that my remission
as Lord Lovat is passd the great seal of Scotland, and Johnathan Tomson caryes
it this week north. I have librae reccav'd a letter in the kings name and Ins
1716.]
JOHN FIFTEENTH. EARL OF SUTHERLAND.
213
order from Secretary Stanhope, and another by the princes order from his secre-
tary, thanking me for my services, and promising mo marks of the king and the
prinees favour.
I am come this lenth to meet General Cadogan, who is incamp'd at Riven in
Badinoh. He is to come to Inverness. The clans are gathering, and sweares
they will fight, but I hardly belive it. Sine General Cadogan is the earles
friend, and that he will be Thursday at Inverness, I most humblely think and
intreat your lordship should come and see him, tho' you did not stay but a few
dayes. I hope my dear Lord Stranaver is convine'd that none alive is more
devoted to him than myself, and that while I breath, the world will know how
much 1 am, with zeal and respect, my most dear lord, your lordships most
affeetionat cusing, and most fathfull and most humble servant, Lovat.
Dullmagary, near the lie of Moy, the 3d of Aprylc 171G.
209. John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to his son, William, Lord
Strathnaver, — chiding him for shewing leniency to the rebels.
London, 18th of July [1716].
Though my sones not taking that care of his oun health he ought to doe did
most sensibly concern me, yet to bear that I have a son that wold either coun-
tenance or protect rebells makes me think those that want children less to be
pittied, for it is better to have none then such as bring a reproach and seandall
upon a family. For to take money for giving protections to Auchtcrdonald and
others, and ordoring back the rebells goods when taken by authority, are things
eriminall and not to be answered for. Soe, son, I conjure you in Gods name lett
nut your good nature be abused and yourself imposed upon by showing any favor
to rebells and the Jacobite magistrats of any place whatsoever.' But if any can
be thought to give money to any to influence you (I thank God I know you are
proof of bribes), lett the rigor and height of justice be executed upon such in ane
exemplary mancr, and snch villanous indeavors will be noe more used, and your
disconsolate father have reason to bless God when he hears it. Adieu. 1
1 Note by the second Duke of Sutherland
on the original letter : " Letter from John,
E. of Sutherland, to his son, Lord Strath-
naver, about 1716."
214 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1716.
210. Bopfrt, Lord Balfour of Bcjelfigit, to John, seventh Earl of
Rothes, enclosed in the succeeding letter, — excusing' himself for joining
the rebels. [July 1716]
My Lord, — The favour your lordship hath shewn even to those who pnesum'd
always to oppose yow incourages me to aslce your lordships asistance, togeather
with your friends, who to my knowledge never disobliged yow.
My lord, ther is ane bill of attainder agenst .me and many others, for not
surrendering to the government for the late uunatureall rebellion. My lord, had
it not been for my former misfourtounes I woud have been so far from standing
out that I should not iugag'd in't at all.
My lord, the sad misfortounes I fell into in my younger days, made it impos-
sibel for me to live publictly, and the rebelione breaking out of ane sudden, and
I not having mony ever to live upon abroad, and at that time not so much as
carry me off the country, obliged me to join thos rebells, far contrair to my educa-
tion and principl's. I belive your lordship may enow that I offerd to join the
Duke of Argyll at first, but that was not thought proper ; this I can instruct :
afterward to join the Earle of Sutherland, and that was not thought safe neather.
Now, my lord, altho I went seemingly along with the rebells in their villanous
and rebellious practices, yet your lordship both seed and heard what services I
did to the shires of Fife and Cinross, as all the country besedes. What services
I did to the ministrs of the establish'd church I belive they will accknowledge
them selves. This, and sume things of the like nature, made me abhorr'd by
them, insomuch that they obraided me for giving intelligance, so that they never
trusted me with any command, altho evry one knows they wanted officiers, and
that I was one severall years in the forringe service. My lord, I never gave
my advice in anie thing save (on ask'd) agenst that barbarous burning of thos
villages. Now, upon the wholl, my lord, your lordship sees that it was plain
force that made me join the rebels, so I hope your lordship with your friends will
give ane just representatione of my case to his Majestie and the government; and
if his Majestie King George wold be gratiously pleased to pardon me I showd
ever be his Majesties most dewtifull and fathfull subject, and your lordships most
obedient, most greatfull, and most humbl servant, Burliegh.
1716.] ROBERT, FOURTH LORD ROLLO. 215
211. John, seventh Earl of Rothes, to John, fifteenth Earl of
Sutherland, — asking the King's pardon for Lord Balfour of Burleigh.
2d August 1716.
My dear Lord, — I had the inclos'd t'other day. This poor unluckie lad writes
realy what is true, for his former misfortunes were the only occasion of his joining
himself in the late wicked rebellion. I know he would many times gladly been
off, and that he did more good services to the country in protecting them,
especially the Presbyterian ministers, then any who was concern'd in the rebellion ;
yea I must doe him the justice to say that I gott from him severall times intelli-
gence of the rebbells motions when they were in this part of the country. He's
a poor unfortunate man, and I am told is very peuitcnt for the faults of his
youth. He has the honour to be your lordships relation, as well as he is mine,
and I should be very ready to join with your lordship in reccommending him to
his Majesties mercy. I know he would haue surrendered but that he lyes already
under sentence of death for his former uuluckie accident. I could not refuse at
the desire of some of his friends to give you this trouble, which I hope you'l
haue the goodnesse to pardon, and believe me ever to be with the greatest
truth and respect, my dear lord, your most faithfull and obedient humble servant,
Kotiles.
Leslie, August 2d, 1716.
212. Roeert, fourth Lord Eollo, to John, fifteenth* Earl of Suther-
land, — complaining that the prisoners were to be transported to Carlisle.
27th August 1716.
My Lord, — Som tyme agoe I trubled your lordship with a leter and a pitition
inclosed to his royall bigness the prins. I haue got no return from your lordship
since, and Mr. Pringall, who I derected my leters to, told me he had caused
deliver it to your lordship. And now, my lord, ther is com orders for ws all to
be transported to Carlyle, and no exeption made of wss who wolintirly sorendred,
which giue me grounds to belive my life and forton to be in hasord, which I
never expected.
And I who most be trayed by my pears am supraised why I should be carted
along with the gentilmen when no parliment is as yit sitting, as I writ befor to
216
FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1716.
your lordship. 1 having sorendred to you I might have expected your assistance,
which I knou my lord is in your pour to cans mc to he kipt hear till the parlimcnt
be siting. The Duke of Montross lies preveld for the Laird of Methvens continuing
in the castill of Edinburgh, who is but his ladys cusn, and will not your lordship
for your oun relations doe as much. But still I will continow in good thoughts
of your lordship wntill the return of this expres which we haue sent wp apurpos
to sie nou who shall apire to be our frinds, and I am, my lord, your lordships
oblidged humble servant, Rollo.
Edinburgh Castill, 27 Agust 1716.
213. Alexander Ross, Solicitor, Edinburgh, holograph but unsigned, to
[William, Lord Strathnaver],— giving an account of Lord Lovats
proceedings and of a duel between Major James Cathcart and Mr. Gordon
of Ardoch. Circa 1716.
My Lord,— I am heartily sorry for haveing occasion by this to give your lordship
account of a very melancholly and tragical affair, which I will account for from
the begining, and beg your lordships patience to read it. There being a paragraph
insert in the Flying Post of Satumday the 9th instant mentioning that his
Majestie, in consideration of my Lord Lovats services in reduceing of Inverness,
bad named his lordship governour of that place, and gave him the independent
company, both vacant by Culonell Monros demission, the earl was justly
offended at his assumeing the sole merit to him self in that affair, aud sent to his
lordship to know if that paragraph had been insert by his orders; which he
absolutely disowning upon oath, it was, however, found upon enquiry to have
been given in by one Alexander Eraser, a freiml and dependent of his lordships
here. ° Hereupon my Lord Lovat is desired to set that matter in a true light, and
consequently contradict the above account by a letter under his hand ; and this
the earl thought he might with the more reason ask, seeing it was what his
lordship and'severall other gentlemen had already acknowledged by their letter
to the earl from Invernes it self, aud that this royal favour donemy lord might
be said to proceed from the recomendatiou made of him to his Majesty by the
earl, when either there was none other that would have done it, or when the
application of such as would might probably have proved unsuccessful!. But my
1716.] LORD LOT ATS QUARREL WITH SIR WM. GORDOX. 217
Lord Lovat made some demurr in tills matter ou Saturnday, and Mr. Gordon of
Ardoch mctt his lordship occasionally next day at Doctor Wei woods, where, upon
his incomeing, he understood my lord and the doctor had been in some warm
debate, and being made acquainted with the occasion by the doctor, whom he
called aside for that purpose, took the opportunity of reasoning the matter with
his lordship, and insisted to haue the aforesaid letter signed by him, and produced
it for that purpose, of the earls own writeing, mentioning that the rebellgovernour
and gavison of Inverness had abandoned the same upon the earls approach with
his men and 12 pcice of cannon, a fact which he and everybody else had so often
owned. But his lordship moat civilly saying that the letter was stuffed with lyos
and falsehoods, Mr. Gordon told him that he durst not have said so of it had
the earl been present. That he understood his lordship had in the hearing of all
the company that day at the doctors threatned to cutt Sir William Gordons
thront, which made the doctor (as he himself says) send for ane officer of tho
gaurd to secure him, of which he was glade, seeing therby he apprehended his
brother to be in no danger, it beiug uncommon to make oppen thrcatuings untill
first the party concerned is made acquainted with the quarrell. Much more
pass'd needles to mention, of all which Sir William, getting notice next day, madu
it his business to search and find out my Lord Lovat at the Smyrna coffee-house,
where, haueing called him in to a closet, he expostulate with his lordship anent
the threatniug language he had the day befor said publickly of him, and his
lordship makeing some bustle, Sir William desired there might be no noyse in the
corTee-house, for that next morning he would beat up my lords quarters and adjust
the matter betwixt them ; and next day be 4 he called and against G they tuo,
attended by Kilravock as my lords freind, and by Ardoch as Sir Williams, went
away in a coach from his lordships lodgeings in Piccadilly, where my lord had
endeavoured to draw in Sir William to a discourse of the quarrell in presence of
James and Alexander Frasers, two of his lordships freinds. But if his lordship
had any designe by that against Sir William 'twas misearyed, for Sir William
avoided, in their company, to speak of the subject. In their out going 'twas pro-
posed to go to some feild in the road to Barnet, but his lordship declined going
any where else than to Marybone feilds, where they all no sooner arrived but a
fellow who followed their coach came up with a gun and swore he would shoot
the first man that drew. After him at some distance appear three or four on
horseback, and James and Alexander Frasers on foot. Some, and no doubt all
2 E
21-
FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [171C.
of them, appeared surprised, and Kilmvock and Mr. Gordon discourseing with the
fellow, he told them plainly he was injoyned to this by a gentleman in Piccadelly
that morning, from whom he goto the gun, but was sworn to conceall his name,
but told his own and his place of abode frankly, of which Mr. Gordon took a
note in his pocket book. Finding themselves thus discovered and attended,
they made a pretence of taking the air, and therufter returned home. My
lord, iu hu return, said that what happened proceeded from his apprehension
that Sir William had misrepresented him, and his lordship and Mr. Gordon
going one way when they came in to town, and Sir William and Kilraick another,
his lordship intreated of Mr. Gordon to endeavour a reconciliation with the
earl, and make up what difference happened betwixt them. This is the account
as near as I can remember, which I could learn of this matter, and by it appears
what returns the earl has for his kindnes to my Lord Lovat, which indeed he
has showen him contrary to the advice of the earls own best freinds, which the
secretaries of state so farr dissowned as to lodge it intirely on the earl, who, they
say, asked it of the king, who they likewise said can refuse nothing to his lord-
ship ; and, indeed, was more than what my Lord Lovat himself demanded at
first, his desire to the earl being only to ask the govemourship, to which the
earl of his own accord joyned the company, and iramediatly gote my lord to
kiss the kings hand for both. But I heartily wish the matter had ended here,
but unluckily it did not; for on Wednesday thereafter, being the 13, in the
evening, Major James Catheart and Mr. Gordon, happening to be at Old Mans
CofTee-house, Mr. Catheart took occasion in his discourse- to throw very injurious
insinuations and reflections on Sir William and him, asking a gentleman that
sate near Mr. Gordon if ever he knew four gentlemen to go out to fight and
come home with whole fleshy wounds, of whom two were such cullions or cowards
(or some word to that purpose) as to hyer a gaurd for their preservation, and
asking a surgeon, that also sate near, if he could tell what the enreing of such
wounds would cost, and a great deall to this purpose, of which Mr. Gordon took
no notice since he spoke of no name. But soon after Mr. Catheart went up and
down the coffee-house boasting to several people how he had insulted Mr.
Gordon, who durst not resent it, and they say insisted much on that strain,
upon which Mr. Gordon came up to him, asking what ground he had for such
language and who were his authors, but the other said he was not obliedged to
give him any authors, and bid him go immediatly out of his sight, at the same
171C-] DUEL BETWEEX MR. CATIICART AXD 2IE, GORDOX. 219
time offering to strike him with his cane. Mr. Gordon telling him he took the
offer of a cane in the same way as the laying on, and whispered him to follow
him, and away both went in a eoaeh to Kensingtoun, from whence they went on
foot by several feilds to a very remote and private place, where they fought, and
Mr. Cathcart had the misfortune to be killed on the spott. Mr. Gordon receaved
five wounds ere the other was touched, and both of them therafter very eager in
their thrusts by a eountertang run each other thorow the body. Mr. Cathearts
sword entered Mr. Gordons right breast betwixt the niple and the hollow, and
went out at his back seven inches, and with the weight of his body in the loungo
broke it, leaving 13 inches behind. Mr. Gordons entered Mr. Cathearts right
breast and went out at his left side, and he endeavouring therafter to recover his
sword, Mr. Cathcart, who then threw away what remained of his own, took hold
of Mr. Gordons in both his hands, which were eutt when Mr. Gordon drew it
back. Hereupon Mr. Cathcart fell back saying he had gote it, but as it was his
own fault so he deserved it, and forgave him very heartily. Mr. Gordon said he
hoped it was not mortall, but, if it was, he doubted not but in few hours to
follow him. Mr. Gordon, in the case he was in, run above a quarter of a mile to
get help to Mr. Cathcart, crying out, and at length found a man who was mowing
hay, with whom he returned, and they both helped up Mr. Cathcart, who by
that time was speechless, but had some life remaining. The man says that Mr.
Gordon was in the outmost concern for him, and kissed him frequently, and
chargeing the man to take care of him untill he brought or sent a coach. He
walked away above a mile befor he came hither to a house, where being refused
access he walked further to another, where he gote access, and immediatly
directed people to go and look after Mr. Cathcart, therafter sent for a surgeon
to himself, and calling for pen, ink, and paper, wrote a line to his brother, his
sex: wounds blooding all this while, and the broken part of the sword remaining
in his body, which continued so for above two hours after he had receaved
it. He has two wounds in the left arm (that being the hand he fought with),
one of them thorow, a third in the same arm near his shoulder, which enters a
litle from behind, a fourth on his left side which slanted on his rib, a fifth in his
left breast a litle under his shoulder, which goes also pretty farr, and the other,
the most dangerous of all, thorow his whole body aud his lungs. His wounds
were dressed that night be twelve by Mr. Bouchier, in presence of Doctor Wel-
wood, who loth declared they feared the worst. He was also befor next morning
220 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1716.
-thrice bled, after which, and not till then, he had some cose. His wounds were
again dressed yesterday, and as they do not blood inwardly, and that there is no
extravased blood in his body, they begin to have good hopes of him. He gote a
glister yesternight, which had very good cifects, but today he seems a litle
feaverish, which in all appearance, from the good symptoms that attend him, is
the only danger that now threatens him. This is the account he himself gave of
the whole affair, some hours after his wounds were dressed, when there was no
hopes of his recovery, and which he declared as a dyeing man, at the same time
owning that 'twas with the greatest reluetaney he was engadged in this unlucky
quarrell till he was provocked with such treatment as no man could bear ; in
which he is vindicated by all the company that was in the coffee-house, which
certainly must be some satisfaction to his freinds whatever becomes of him.
I take this opportunity also of acquainting your lordship that yesterday I
gote out your warrand of pension from the treasury for £500, which commences
at Martimas last, and if I can see the earl to-day, will send it and the gift of
chamberlainry down this night in order to be expede. In my last to my lady
from this place I urged the absolute necessity there was of sending the Master
and Mr. William hither for their education. Your lordship is senseible how
absolutely necessary it is for them, and how dissadvantageous to them it must be
now to lose any time. Sir William has boarded his two sons at a school, resolved
to spare no expenee in their education, and I beg of your lordship to follow the
same example with all convenieney.
2H. William, Lord Strathnaver, [address wanting 1 ], intimating the birth of
his daughter, Lady Helen Sutherland.
Dunrobin, AprUe 17th, 1717.
Sir, — I wrote to you some posts ago about a suit of eloaths for my self, and an
upper coat of good drab eloath, as like ways upper coats for my two eldest sons,
with a short persvig for each of them, and one for Charles. I desire you would
buy a good well goeing nag. If that cannot be well had, a good strong one
which may bring north the things recommended to you. The two dozen spades
1 Apparently to Alexander Rosa, solicitor, Edinburgh, aa the letter i3 indorsed in his
handwriting.
1717.] SIM OX, LORD LOT AT. 221
I have receiv'd, You may order "William Miller, gardner, to send at the same
time two of the best pruneing knives and three duzeu best setts of elove gilly
flowers. The eight of this moneth my wife was brought to bed of a daughter,
which I named Helen after my mother. I am, sir, your most humble servant,
Strathnaver.
215. Simon, Lord Lovat, to John*, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland,— asking
his personal influence with the members of the Court of Requests. 19
June 1717.
My dear Lord, — The experience I have of your lordships goodness to me and to
my kindred makes me belive that tho I were not in the world your lordship
would be a friend to the name of Fraser that loves and respects you. The
standing or ruin of the family of Lovat and of the Frascrs depends on tomorows
vote in the House of Conions. The gift which your lordship did contribut to
obtean me of Fraserdales escheat, that I might possess the lands of my fore-
fathers, is like to be taken from me by a clause put in by the Commissioners of
Inquiry, and all I have for it is to petition the house to get myself excepted out
of that elause. I most humbly beg your lordship may give me your interest with
the members of the house, and I do assure your lordship that not only I, but my
whole kindred, shall ever have a most gratfull ressentment of it, and your lord-
ship shall find us as ready to serve you as any whatsoever. I therfore most
humbly beg your lordship may do me the houour to come to the Court of Re-
quests about the tyme the members goes in, to speak to those your lordship
pleases iu my favours, and if your lordship will be so good as to give me
tomorows harvest day, ther shall not be a day of my life but your lordship
shall find me with zeal and great respect, my dear lord, your lordships most
obedient and most fathfull humble servant, Lovat.
London, at ten at night on Wedsday, the 19 of June 1717.
FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTEllS. [1717
210. Simon, Lord Lov.vr, to John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, — re-
minding the earl that he had acted with much zeal during the rebellion.
23 September 1717.
Mv Lord, — I hope your lordship will pardon the trouble of this letter, sine I
canot have the honour to see your lordship at your house, where I call'd several
tymes, but could get no aeces, a mUsfortun I once thought would never hapen
me. But my confort is that I have nothing to reproach myself with that could
deserve it. For I never fail'd in the respect I owe your person, nor in the grati-
tude I owed for your lordships kind services to me while I was in my greatest
disstress; aud if your lordship will hut impartially reflect on all that pass'd in
the north during the late unatural rebellion, your lordship will find that in return
of those services your lordship was pleasd to do me that I acted with as much
zeal and affection for your lordships person and interest as if I had had the
honour to be born your lordships only sun. Aud your lordship canot but
remember that my zeal and attache to your person were not of smal use to your
lordship, considering how you was situated, not only with the kings enemys but
also with severals of the kings friends ; and tho your lordship had no tnaner of
value for my person, I humbly think that your lordship should have some regard
for my kindred, not only for ther past services but for what may hereafter hapen.
For its most certain that their is at least for this generation a stated hatred
betwixt the Mackenzies and your lordships family, which some tyme or other
may come to blows, aud if ever that hapens, I am convine'd that those who
influence your lordship to abandon and maltrait your essential friends will not
fill their place, but on the conterary will be of very litle use to your lordship and
family, and your lordships cold behaviour towards me hindred me to represent
this to your lordship as your near relation and real friend. Nay, I was concern'd
to sie such ane alteration in your lordships friendship towards me, that I had
not assurance enough to speak to your lordship of my poor eualng Strays busines,
tho their was not a week but I was pressd to it by letters from the north. But
sine he now charges me with the ruin of his family by ingadging him to give
your lordship those cows, I hope you will pardon the freedom I take to beg of
your lordship most humbly to pay that litle money. Struy and his nearest
friends are perswaded, if he had given your lordships note to any other than me,
1719.] JOIIX, FITTEEXTII EARL OF SUTHEFLAXD. 223
that lie would have had his money long ore now, for the want of whieh his litle
erpdit 13 broke, and he e-viot keep the streets for captions. Your lordships note
13 but of sixty pounds ; but your lordship knows that our poor gentilnien may
have their eredit and their farailys raisd or broke for sixty pounds. And sine
your lordship got 2000 pounds, whieh are given in account to the Parlement for
your lordships expenees at Inverness, and that your lordship receavd a 1000 of
it sine this note was given by your lordship, I hope you will be so good as
to order the payment of thir sixty pounds to a poor gentiliuan, who often ventur'd
his life to serve your lordship, and who, out of meer affection to your lordship,
gave you those cows for which he had given his personal bonds, that your
lordships men and those under your comand might not want subsistance. I
flatter myself that your lordship will put ane end to his trouble or to any noi.se
or clamour he may hereafter make for such a trifle ; and by whatever means
malicious persons have indeavour'd to make your lordship my enemy, I never
did nor never will deserve it, and no behaviour of your lordships will ever make
me forget the former serviees you was pleasd to do for me, nor the honour I have
of being, with a sincere respect, my lord, your lordships most affectionat eusing
and most obedient humble servant, Lovat.
London, the 23d of St-'pteinbre 1717.
217. John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to Charles, Earl of Sunder-
land,- — sueeess of the royal forces at Glenshiel. Copy.
Marlborough Street, 19 of June 1719.
My Lord, — I congratulate your lordship upon the success of the kings forees against
the rebulls, upon the Pretenders birthday, and the share that the small number of
my men who were there had in it. They eould not belong to me if they did not
act their parts with zeal. My last letter was upon the kings birthday, and to con-
gratulate your lordship upon that happy occasion, and to desyre your interest for
the tellers post vacant by the death of the Lord Toringtoune, whieh your lordship
was pleased to satisMe me was promised. I was perswaded that Mr. Addison
eould not live long by what I heard, but as I eannot desire the post of one
diserved to live, and whom I wished to live, I eould not ask it; now being dead,
I must entreat your lordships friendship in it. There is now due to me in a few
224
FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS.
[1719.
days a year and a halfe sallary in the pollice, which, if payed, dont amount to the
interest of the money I have laid out siuce the Revolution for carying on that
good work, and securing to us the protectant succession which wee do happilly
enjoy. I think I may the rather expect your lordships favour in this affair to
put me in a way to pay my debts contracted upon that account, and to wa[l]k
through the world the best I can with my wonted zeal and afection to the King.
Indorsed : Coppy of my letter to the Earl of Sunderland.
218. JOIIX, FIFTEENTH EARL OF SUTHERLAND, to JAMES, EARL OF STANUOrE,
asking for the post in Exchequer vacant by the death of Mr. Addison. 1
19th June 1719. Copy.
My Lord, — I congratulate your lordship upon the 28 of May as being the
auspicious day upon which our glorious King was born, and at the same tyme
entreated your lordships favour to intercecd with the King for my haveing the
tellers place in the exchecquer vacant by the Lord Torringtons death ; I now
congratulate your lordship upon the defeat of the rebells upon the Pretenders
birthday. There were no highlanders with the regular troops, but some of myn
and som of the Munroes. My folks were upon the right of the regular forces
and behaved themselves as if I had inspired them. My son was at Inverness,
where he is shirive, to keep matters in order there, and to have the troops
supplyed with necessaryes from thence. Considering, my dear lord, the part I have
still acted, and the zcall that such of myn as were show'd, I hope the kin^ will
please to bestow upon me the post in the exchequr now vacant by the decease of Mr.
Addison. I knew he was so ill lie could not subsist long, but as I wished him to
live, and barring Gods pleasure, thought he deserved to live, I could not ask it.
I hope there is no engadgment as in the last, for my Lord Chancellors son, which
could not be helped. If your lordship please to exert yourselfe now for me at
this juncture you cannot do it for on who has suffered or endeavoured to do more
for the service, and who must be undone if nothing be done. It is needless to
tell you that there is non with greater sincerity, truth, and respect, then I, my
lord, your lordships most fathfull aud most obedient, humble servant,
Marlborough Streett, 19 of June 1719.
1 The Right Hon. Joseph Addiaon, the famous writer in The Spectator.
1720.] JOI/y, FIFTEENTH EARL OF SUTHERLAND. 2'25
I am doing what I can to have Mr. Douglass chose member of parliament for
\Ya"Iingford, knowing him to be at your lordships disposall. Your lordships lady
and children are, I thank God, weell.
Indorsed : Coppy of my letter to Earl Stanhope.
219. John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to Charles, Earl of Sunder-
land, — requesting the office vacant by the death of his son, Lord
Strathnaver. 25th July 1720. Copy.
My Lord, — After haveing been some tyrae in the country for the recovery of
my health I came this night to toune with a design to wait on your lordship,
when you should please to appoint, and mett with letters giveing me ane
account of my son Strathnavers death, which afflicting news deprives me of that
happieness, and makes me trouble your lordship with this letter. I regrate my
sons loss the more that he was zealous and steady in the kings service, who,
in consideration of it, gave him the collection of the crown rents in the shy re
of Eoss, allowing him to detain five hundred pounds yearly iu his own hands.
He enjoyed it but two years, and laid out of his own money dureing the
two rebellions above twehve hundred pounds for mantaining men and keeping
garisons. He haveing now left four sons, the eldest of which is fourteine years
of age, I expect your lordships favour and interest with the king to have it
bestowed upon me, who am tutor to the children, in the same terms my son had
it, who shall apply it to contribute to their education. It is with tears in my
eyes I make this application to your lordship, and to prevent others who are
ready to catch. at everything. The confusion and griefe I am in, will, I hope,
attone with your lordship for any escape in my writing, there being rone alive
with greater respect and esteem then I, my lord, yuur lordships most faitlifull and
most obedient, humble servant,
Marlborough Streett, 25 Jully 1720.
Indorsed : Coppy of my letter to the Earl of Sunderland. 25th of July 1720.
2 F
226 FAMILY ASD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [17
220. James, Earl of Stanhope, to Jonx, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland,
— the death of Lord Strathnaver.
Hanover, July 18th, 1720 O.S.
My Lord, — I heartily condole with your lordship for the loss of your son, poor
Lord Strathnaver, and, having acquainted the king therewith, his Majesty is
pleased to consent that you should have the collection of the chamberlanry of the
crown lands in Ross, and the allowance of live hundred pounds yearly pension
out of it which your son enjoyed, and I have writ by his Majesty's command to
the Duke of Uoxburghe to prepare the proper instruments accordingly for his
Majesty's royal signature. I hope this will find your lordship in a better state of
health, being very truly, my lord, your lordship's most obedient, humble servant,
STANHOrE.
221. "William, Lord Strathnaver, to his grandfather, John, fifteenth
Earl of Sutherland, — expressing his satisfaction that he is to go to
Hanover. 9th February 1727.
My Lord, — I had the honour of your lordsips commands by your letter from
London, 13th of January, and I am very glad that it is your desire I should go
to Hanover before I come home. I leave this place the end of this month, and
hope to see you a few months hence. Your letter to Prince Fredrick will cer-
tainly be of great use to me, since it is absolutly necessary that I have some
recomandation. I believe none can be more effectual than your lordships. I am
sorry to hear that your affairs in Scotland have been so long ill managed. "When
it pleases God that I come home I shall not be so far wanting in my duty as not
to do all that lyes in my power towards retrieving what has been mismanaged
since my fathers death. — I am, my lord, your mobt dutiful and most obedient
grandson,
Angers, February 9th, N.S., 1727.
WILLIAM, LORD STRATIIXAVER.
222. William, Lord Strathnaver, to his grandfather, John, fifteenth Earl
of Sutherland, — stating ids desire to remain in Paris some time before
going to Hanover.
Paris, March 20th, o.s., 1727.
My Lord, — I have received your lordships of the 14th and 20th of Marche, by
both which I understand you have been pleas'd to write to Prince Frederik about
me. Tho' I desire nothing so much as to have the pleasure of seeing your lord-
ship as soon as possible, yet I hope you will not at all be against my staying here
some short time. I propose to leave this place about the beginning of May, o.s.,
so that I reckon I may be at the Hague against the midle of the said month.
Some people tell me that the shortest way from this to Hanover is by Stras-
bourgh; but if your lordship has any particular reasons why I should rather go
by Holland I am ready to obey, being always, my lord, your lordship's most
dutiful and obedient grandson, Strathnaver,
To the right honourable the Earl of Sutherland, London.
NINE LETTERS from Frances, Countess of Sutherland, 1 third wife of
John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, to her husband.
223. (1) Regretting his absence.
August the 26, [1727].
I THOUGHT I was armed against all uneaseness, but find my dear lord foursaw
more of me then I did of myself, for cant expres my consarn for the loss of you,
which, without flattery, woud bee to much, only am in hopes, by God blessing,
to see you againe next month, which for my sake take all the care that is posable
of your self, and my prayers shall bee constantly for your helth and prosperaty.
And I must beg you will settle your affaires with your famile, that wee may bee
all hewuighted and loueing, which I shall make it my study to bee so, for you
1 This lady was the third wife of John, earl on 11th August 1727. She died at
fiftceuth Earl of Sutherland. She was the Chelsea about COth December 1732, without
widow of Sir John Travel!, and married the issue.
228 FAMILY AXI) DOMESTIC LETTEIiS. [1727.
very well know T can have no other intrcst in few. I shall take care to deliver
the collonel your letters as you directed, and every thing els that I think can be
of service to iny dear lord, and am sincearly, your aflectionat wife,
Excuse this "scrol, for have not recouered the surprise of your goeing.
serviee to them you thing proper. Pray let me hear ofens. Adiev.
224. (2) About her affectionate coneern for him.
August the 31st, [1727].
I RECEIVED my dear lords two letters, which was the greatest pleasure I can now
bane. But it has been a very great consarn to me your being so long at Sheerness ;
but I waehing the wind found it turned for my dear lord of Tuesday eveuing, so
hope bye God blessing this will meet you safe at Edinburgh, which I shall
rejoice to hear. I sent Collonel Pureell word to come to me, so I delivered your
letters and he aproued of that to my lord, so seut me word of Munday night that
every thing woud bee don, therefore you may bo ease on that score, and I hope
one every thiug els, which is my constant prayers and indevers to make you so,
and belive you will doe the same to me. There ha3 been but one letter for you,
which I thought riot proper to send ; but if any comes I think is, I will send
them as you directed. Mrs. Sidney is with me, and wee can drink no helth but
my dear lords. Mrs. Grimstons goes from me this daye, and both give there
sineear serviee to you. I have had a letter from Lord Strathnaver, and shall
answer it very soon. I desire you will order me sume Scoeh cole, not forgiting
my wine. My serviee to all friends you think proper. I haue not playd at cards
nor maid any visitt since you went, but thauk I am very well of my illness, and
shall obsarue your directions, and in hearing from you every post, tho' but two
Hues, will be a satisfaction to your affeetiouat wife, F. Sutherland.
1727.] FEASCES, COUXTESS OF SUTHERLAND.
225. (3) Warning Jura not to allow others to impose upon him.
September the 14, [1727].
I don't know how to expres my joye to hear my dear lord is safe and well at
Edenbrugh, for I was resolved nither to visitt nor play at cards till I heard you
was out of all danger. Mrs. Sidne will tell you ray uneasseuess, she haueing been
with me ever since the Munday you left me, or I shoud a been perfectly
maloncole, but will now goe and see oner friends.' I am glad you remark Lord
Fairfax. I beleive yo<i have more of them friends ; but my dayly prayers is that
God Almighty will open your eyes that you may no longer be inposed upon, so
that wee may be sincearly hewuighted, and consult with one another in every
perticulcr. You very well know my intrest will be for you aud famile, I haue-
ing no neare relations of my one; but you must be sure to be very good. I
shoud a wret ofiener, but thought it not proper, you being not in Scotland.
I heard of my Lord Strathnaver being chose, which was no smal pleasure to me.
Non of your gentleman friend has been to see me. I belive thay are well
informed I shall find them out. I think you haue been put upon enuff by all
hand, which is a great trouble to me to see you suffer so much by your good
nater. Your offering me that trifle when you left me gaue me no smale imprestion.
Don't trust Morroson, for reasons I will tell you ; so I intend to git another
gardener. I haue sold my sick hors, and intend to git another as soon as posable ;
but if you have a pair in Scotland pray send them, because one pair will not doe.
1 beg you will come to me as soon as your affaires will permit, and that will con-
tribet much to my helth. The janters I am quite well of, and want nothing now
but my dear lord. My Lady Hindford lets me know that her lord has had a
summens to come and bring his lady to walk at the coronation, which she intends.
But them that does not must send an excuse to the queen, so I beg by the first
post you will let me know whether you have got a summens, and in what manner
and by who I must send my excuse, and let me know whether you can haue the
tickets without walkin. My service where you think proper. Mrs. Sidne is your
humble servant, and so is your affectionat wife, F. Sutherland,
2:0 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS.
22G. (4) Explaining why she had not written him sooner.
September the 20, [1727].
I AM extreamly consarned my dear lord shoud take it ill my not writing offener,
but I thought it very improper because I did not know what hands my letters
might fall into, your not being there. For you may depend in your absence I
haue not a greater pleasure then writing to my dear lord, and which you ought
to take for a great kindness, because it this a thing I ahvaye baited, and that
makes me write in this ill inaner. But I know your good understanding will
not remark falts, but corect them. As I wret in my last I remind you again to send
me word in what maner I must excuse my self to the queen ; and I shoud be glad
you eoud walk. Sume of your friends has asked me fur tickets, so lett me know
whether I shall haue any. I have don all you have ordered me but bleeding,
and now drink the asses milk and am very well in helth, tho' unease for want of
you. But since you haue taken so long a voage, I beg you will fix your affaires
in so reguler a maner that wee may be ease the remaner of ouer life; for there is
nothing that makes the world goe eassely on but takeing eare of there affaires.
Yow are to sensable this is true. Tray be earefull of who you trust, for if you
suffer, depend I shall pertake in everything with you. Therefor for my sake you
ought to be more upon your gard then you haue been, and then I don't questen
but be as happy as posable, which is the dayly prayers of your affectionat wife,
F. Sutherland.
My love to your children and grandchildren, and am glad to hear there are
all well. Mrs. Sidne giues her sarviee.
227. (5) Expressing her anxiety about her settlements.
September the 2G, [1727].
I REJOCE my dear lord is in perfect helth, for that is the only thing that makes
me case ; for you will find by my letter I wret to you last Satterday that I haue
reason to be under a grate cousarn, tho depend holy upon your honer, you
asureing me you had paid all judgments of, so that there was nothing to affect
my settlements. You know very well my intrest is yours, and if you neeglect
the law, it will fale heave on us as well as candelus, which I am sure I shond
never hold up my head aflfter if you let it come to a publiek matter. I thinke
1727.] FRAXCES, COUXTESS OF SUTHERLAXD. 231
my dear lord shoud remember what yon haue suffered by ill peple and necglect
of buissnessj and now to remark and not trust any person, but mind your afaires,
for nobody is more capeable theu your sell*; so I beg, for my sake as well as your
one, to mind your affaires, and send mc word the perticuler of this matter.
Collonel Windrom is very frendly to mc, for I consult only with him. Bilinglce
you will find no friend. I am sorry you doe not know me better then to think
I shoud walk at the coronation and you not with mc, which I knew you had nut
time to come back, so neuer had a thought of it. I haue enuff to doe with my
money without that expence, for I haue lade out a great deel for workman, and
nesscseary for the house, aud all new pewter. But the forst flooer I haue stopt
apon thes noies. 1 beg you will settle your affaires in a regler maner, so that
wee may not part any more till God Almigh cales us, for I haue not been less
unease then you can a been, which your friend here will tell you, for I haue been
but three times owt to viset since you went, which I coud not hansomly avoid.
The Duches of Rutland and Lord Harberrow was with me last night, and stayed
with me three houers, who giues there service, and hope you will be up at the
coronation, it being now put of till the 11th, aud which will be a great plearc to
your afiectionat wife, F. Sutherland.
I beg you will excuse my not writing to Lady Maitland, for I am in so much
trouble I can't compose myself, which you may see bye my scrol. I hope you
will abraid me no more for want of writing, for I neuer a faild every post since
I know where you was, nor neuer will. Send me two frank. The money Mr.
Bilinglee had he has paid nobod}', so I beg you will put all money in Collonel
Windromes hand, and we will see and make it up without law, for els you will
continue to be cheted prodigesly, so we shall suffer by it.
228. (6) Her continued concern for the want of him, etc.
September the 28th, [1727].
I AM glad you are conches in abraiding me rongfully of my neckglect to you in
not writing offener, for I know my self so well that you shall have no reason on
any score, and I hope I shall not haue from my dear lord. I will not repeat the
consarn I am in for the want of you, and the other affair is very terrible to me ;
but that I have said enuff of in my last, and I think I shoud despies all them
232 FAMILY AND DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1727.
peple and branches of them that accation it, for it Trill be sume time before
earacter and fortaine can be retreved. You may depend I will industerevsly
indever to doe both, and my dear lord must doe the same. I wish Lord Stra[th-
naver] was hear, it this but tryin (sic). Don't forgit tickets. I paid three and
6 pence for the packet, and have sent yours to Lord Sussex, as you ordered. I
intend to advise with Collouel Windrom in your affair, and I sopoes you had a
letter from him last post If I doe not write in it let me know, for nobody is a
better judg in most matters then my dear lord. I haue wret to Lady Maitland
this post. I must beg againc you will aply your self to buisness, because in a
grate measure yours and my happyness depends on it. I haue sent for Lady
Hindford to consult of the hansomest methord to excuse my self to the queen. I
haue not been at court since you went, nor no where els, but sume visets I coud
not avoid. I have dou all you ordered me but bleeding, which I did before ; and
rejoice to hear you keep your hclth so well, which is the harty prayers it may
continue, from your affectionat wife, F. Sutherland.
I don't loue the word adiev. You remember you told me you had no execu-
tions, so I depend you haue not. I desire you will send me sum pickel herrins,
and pickel pork and beeff, and Scoach cole. I beg you will always tell me the
w T orst of any affair, who am, my dear lord, your sincearly. The Duches of
Athens and Lady Hindford is just gon from me, and giues there service to you,
and thinks me mighty rong I doe not walk, -for thay think it woud be to your
intrest if I did.
229. (7) That she had excused herself to the King and Queen for not attending
at the coronation.
September the 30, [1727].
My dear lord is very kind in wateing for a letter from me, but you may
depend I have not, nor shall, miss one post, being all the pleasure I haue in your
absence. The forst letter I had from you was isterday fortnight, which was
September the 14, and received every post one since, which I answerd the 15,
and so never faild answering them, and I thank you for your promising to con-
tinue being so good. I haue wret you seven letter since you let me know you
was at Edenbrugh, and two I sent before, so hope non as miscaried. I haue
excuesed my self to the king and queen, and haue don it in the best maner I
1727.] FRAXCES, COUXTESS OF SUTHERLAND. 233
coucl/'whieh I hope you will aprove of, because I woud doe every thing you
shoud be pleased with. I beg my dear lord will come to me as soon as posablc
your affaires will let you, for I had no nosion I coud a been so unease as I am
without you, and I haue other great troubles upon nie. I am all a lone and desine
to be so till you come, and haue never been out of my one doores this fortnight. I am
so maloncole 1 scarsly know what I writ, so hope you will excuse this sad scrols.
Collonel Windrom is with me, who is the only person I can speek to in your affaires.
If you haue not sent me the perticuler of them in relating to the judgment, I beg
you will as soon as you git this, and what money Mr. Bilinslee has of yours, for
he has paid nothing, and you know the consequence if thay are not paid. It will,
in sum measure, be the re win of us both. I beg, for God Almighty sake, to lot
me know the worst, and not to be toarn in peces here, but to let mc goe to my
one house into Lincolnshire, for one such caudelevs matter woud be my death, who
am, my dear lords afflected but loueing wife, F. Sutherland.
I sent your letter to Lord Sussex. The packet I paid three and sixpence for.
230. (8) Sending him general news.
October the 14, [1727].
I AM extreamly glad to heare Lady Strathnaver is come to Edenburgh. But it
is a great comsarn to me that I am obliged to find fait with her sun, for he docs
not wright to be from the place he knew you must be, so can have no excuse for
necglcctin so kind a gran father to resinc all to his famile. Only so smal a trifel,
and that not to be paid, itt must he greatly to all there disaduantages. But I
beg my dear lord will be very cautievs who he intrust, and make all the hast
that is posable to me. Xext Munday I intend to haue a meating at Mr. Bridgens
chambers as you directed, and what is don in the affair I will- let you know.
I went in my coach isterday, and took Collonel Wiudrom with me, to St. James's,
and I sent him up the back stares to give my duty to the queen, and to know
how she did affter her feteage, which she received very gracevsly and said she
was very well, but had hurt her foot by a stick that a man let fall from the
cannapee that was caried ouer her Majestie at the coronation, wdiich solemnety
was extreamly fine j but that perticuler you will haue in the publick papers. I was
at home all that daye, and drunk there majesties helth and my dears lord, which
2 34 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1T28.
I ncucr omit. I haue tcverel letters for you, but I opened them to se whether
thay wanted an answer. But as thay was of no consequence I woud not put you
to the charge to send you them. Hut the incloesed I thought you shoud haue.
It came to° my hands this daye by a dark as he said he was to the offece, and
woud a had me giuen him monpy. But not knowing any thing of the affaire, I
did not; if you think it proper to giue him any thing lctt me know and I will.
Mr. "SVynn was to see me isterday, who tolk me a bundence of things to your
praise. I thanked him and said I knew them all and much more, for I was
never happy till now, which is very true, when thies little rubs is ouer. He gaue
his humble service to you, and so does Lady AVindom aud spoues, and Mr. and
Mrs. Cardenel, and Mrs. Sidne, and almost every one I see ; and very body very
land to me but two of vour croneys. Mrs. Morrow was at the coronation. My
service to him, and let him know all his famile is well : and my love and service
where von think proper, who am, your sinccar loueing wife,
J F. Sutherland.
The butter is so bad it cant be eves'd.
231. (9) Telling of her reception at Court.
♦ January the 6, [1728].
I received my dear lord[s] of the 23, but it was affter I had wret to you. I am
extreamly pleasd I can doe any thing to oblige my dear, and you may depend
• I doe every thing to the best of my knowlidg for your intrest, but must beg you
will asist me. I was so well last night that I went to court with the Duches of
Doset, who I thought the properest person, being a lady of the bed chamber. So
was so good to present me to the Princes Koyel, who received me very gracevesly
and talked a great dcel to me. From thence wee paid ouer duty to there Majesties,
where the queen was vastly gracesvs and kind to me, and inquired vastly affter
my dear lord, and I asured her Majestie you woud be in town the sitting of the
parlement, which I beg you will. Lord Grantom and I had a grate deel of ehatt,
which is not proper to write. I beg you will send sume perticuler friend to Lord
Strathnaver, for when it is don it is to late to advice, and he is so young it is
inpoable to know the world, and am, your affectionate wife,
F. Sutherland.
My love to all your child reu.
173.1.] COSMO GEORGE, MARQUIS OF UUXTLY. 235
232. Cosmo George, Marqui.4 of Huntly, to John, fifteenth Earl of
SuniEKLAND,— informing him of the death of his father, Alexander,
second Duke of Gordon. 2Stli May 1723. Copy.
My Lord, — It is with great concern I am to acquaint your lordship of (the Duke
of Gordon) my father's death, which happened last Friday, after ane indisposition
of (only) six days.
My nonage and relation to your lordship give me ground to desire and expect
your friendship, which shall be carefully cultivated and justly valued by, my
lord, your lordships most affectionate cousine and most humble servant,
HuNTLY.
Gordon Castle, 28th May 1728.
233. Lady Catharine Hyde, Duchess of Queensberry,— on being forbidden
to go to Court; circa 172S. Contemporary copy.
The Duchess of Queensberry is surprizM and well plcas'd that the king
should send her so aggreable a command as to stay from court, where she never
vent for diversion, but to bestow a great civility on the king and queen. She
hopes for this unprecedented order the king will soon see as few as he wishes at
his court, particularly such as dare to think or speak truth. For my part I dare
not do otherwise, and ought not nor cou'd have imagiiiM that it wou'd not have
been the very highest compliment I cou'd have paid the king to endeavour to
support truth and innocence in his house, C. Queensberry.
Particularly when the king and queen had both told me that they had not
read Mr. Gay's play, I certainly did right to stand by my own word rather than
his Grace of Graftons, who has neither made use of truth, judgement, or honour
thro' this whole affair either for himselfe or his friends.
Indorsed : Dutchess of Quensburys letter.
231. Lady Margaret \Veuyss, to her brother-in-law, William, sixteenth Earl
of Sutherland, — stating her intention to visit Dunrobim c. 1735.
My dear brother, — I was surprised at your letter to day, but it was only at
your goodness in takeing so kind a way to show me how far I was in the wrong
23G
FAMILY AND DOMESTIC LETTERS.
[1735
to you, but I asure twas not want of lnclineation but want of something to
entertain you that himlerd my begining a corespondence that I have so much
reason to be fond of. As for cntring into the bonds of matrimony thats what I
am in no hurry shout, but I resolve to be ready to atend you and Betty when
ever you want my company, and to shew you how little tired I was of the last
jaunt I made to your part of the world, I am already speaking of another nect
sumer which will be much the more agreable with the thought of your being
better devertcd nect winter then you posibly coud be hear. I was at a play
this night where there was a great many company, and inspite of all that, poor
ma was wishing herself in the big chair at Dunrobine kissing Catogg, who I am
glad to hear is turning stronger. I send you twa bottles of snuf. If you think
it good you shall have more, or any thing else in my powr to serve you. All
your friends hear remembers you in the kindest maner. I beg to be rememberd
to all with you, and bellieve me always to be, my dear lord, your most affectionat
sister and obedeint, humble servant, Marg. "Wehyss.
To the right honourable the Earl of Sutherland at Dunrobine.
235. General James St. Clair, to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherla:nd,
and Lady Elizabeth vVemyss, his Countess, — birth of Lord Strathnaver.
Mahon, July 13, O.S. [1735].
My dearest LORD AND lady, — From the bottom of my heaTt and soul I rejoyce
at the birth of Lord Strathnaver, and felicitate yow both upon it. May he prove
ane ornament to the family, and a source of continuall joy to his father and
mother while they live, and that that may be longe I most heartily pray. Lady
Bairds letter of the 31st of May, which brought me the good tydings three days
agoe, was longe looked for, and although she says in it that hir nice was in a good
way of recovery, I shall continue verey anxious untill I heare further about hir.
I make no doubt of your goeing home as sooue as possibly yow can, and when
there, that each of yow will exert your selves in the provinces that more particu-
larly belongs to yow. Your lordship has a prodigious dale to do to bring your
esteat and rents to a right bearing, and your ladyship will find that the household
affairs will not be got into a right forme without ane acctive and closs application.
I shall pretend to judge of your affections for Catouge not from your kissing and
1737.] WILLIAM, SIXTEENTH EARL OF SUTHERLAND. 237
dandling of him, but from the progress that each of yow shall make in the
respective affairs that falls under your care, and these I propose to pry and inquire
into upon the spott, as soone as I. possibly can, and that with such zeail as becomes
one, whom both of yow have incouradged to reckon himself a parent when he is
in Dunrobin Castle. Without exadgeration my concerne for the well fare of the
family cou'd not be greater wer I grand father instead of grand uncle to my dear
Catouge, and depend on it if either of yow is slack or remiss in doeing your duty
with regard to one another, or the family, yow shall not escape without being told
of it. Haveing now almost finished what I came about here I propose lea vein**
this the begining of nixt moneth, and its verey probable that Colloncl Anstnvther
will bear me company in returning through France by Bourdeaux, his intention as
well as mine being to get to London before the winter comes on, where I have
your concerncs to take care of as well as my owne.
Your lordship is concerned both in interest and honour to support Mr.
Gilchrist. Pray don't omitt then to humble those reverend rascaiis that have
dared to attacque him, and to let them feell how inconvenient it will be for any
man that lives in Sutherland to meddle in ony degree with your affairs. I shall
expecte to heare from yow by the conveyance of Tom Wilson, who alhvays knows
wher I am to be found I beg that my compliments may be made to my brother
lairds and all my other frinds and aquamtances in Sutherland. My blissing to
Lordey, Lady Ma, and whatever more of my nephews or nices yow may have
caTyed north with [yow]. That God may for ever bliss, prossper, and protect yow
both is the most earnest prayer of, my dearest lord and lady, your most affectionat
and fond uncle, Jas . St< Clair>
To the Earl and Countess of Sutherland.
236._ William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, to Mr. John Baillie, W.S.,—
about the riot in Assynt. [llth April 1737.] Copy.
Sir,— You have inclosed copies transmitted of two petitions with - the deliverances
thereon. The first at Ardloch's instance and the other at his and Robert Mackay,
one of our officers, instance against the several persons therein named, to both
which we referr, together with the copy of a journal made by Baillie Kenneth
FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS.
[1737.
Sutherland, who had the direction of seeing the first warrant put in execution.
From which you 'le observe the insults given by those people to the law, and
which occasioned the issuing the second warrand, for the executing whereof we
have resolved to do everything that can be legally supported. "We are not un-
known to the incitements given by some of our neighbours (whom you may
pretty surely guess uf) to these people, not only to disturb us in our privat right
and interest in that corner, but also to defeat and insult us in our publick capacity
as sherefT. And as we are determined not to bear with such abuses, either in the
one shape or other, have therefore, as we have confidence in your conduct, and of
your good wishes to us and our family's interest, given you the charge of this
affair, that you may advise such able lawiers as you think proper thereanent, and
report to us their opinion of what we have already ordered to be done, and how
and in what manner we are to eause proceed against the offenders, whether befor
our sherefT or regality court, and how far the offence may carry, whether beyond
that of simple deforcement or not, with such other directions as they shal think
proper in the conduct of the prosecution. As wo may have oecasion to give you
the manadgment of further matters we expect your diligence in this; and what
cxpences you are put to youle send an aeeompt of and your payment shal be
ordered from Mt. Arbutlmot and Company. The preparing proper memorials
and queries for the lawiers we leave to your self to make up from the writes
inclosed, and you 'le keep the express till all is ended and acquaint me whether
I may not have a party of the regular forces to assist at executing the warrant
and how I am to apply for them.
You know that by my right to the estate of Assint my entry to the posses-
sion commences at Whitsunday next ; and as I expect all the disturbance in my
attaining the possession that Lord Seaforth and his friends ean give, of which
what now happens is a part and a beggining only, and as you know the whole
import and nature of my right, you 'le represent the same to the lawiers and have
their opinion anent what I am to do at taking possession, and the method how I
am to proceed in it ; for I will not do anything rashly while I can purchase adviee
in any affair, but especially in this, where I 'm sure of having elamour against
me and my people, let us act or do never so securely and legally.
Indorsed : Copy letter by the Earl of Sutherland to John Baillie, Writer to
the Signet, anent the riot in Assint. Sent by express, 11 April 1737.
1730.] JOHN SUTIIERLAXD OF FOUSE. 239
237. Jonx Gordon, Edinburgh, to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland,
— proposing rearrangements in the new church of Golspie. 14th July 1737.
My Lord, — As I am inform'd that the church of Golspie is now pretty far
advanc'd in the building, and that your lordship has chose to have your own seat
opposite to the pulpit, I would incline to have the place allotted to us in the east
end of the church, as I 'm inform 'd there are no lieretors of any larger extent
in the parish, or coming to the said church ; and if we are allow'd to run a
vent up that gavel 'twill be oblidging, as also to have the door in the east end,
for both which, for our own conveniency, I am willing to pay over and above
our proportion of the church, which your lordship is now enabl'd to retain out of
the money due upon the comprising of Golspictour. I shall expect the favor of
an answer with your lordship's sentiments on this in course of post, and am, my
lord, your lordship's very obedient humble servant, John Gordon.
Edinburgh, 14th July 1737.
238. John Sutherland of Forse (?)» to William, sixteenth Earl of
Sutherland, — about accouuts of the carl's factor. 8th August 1730. .
My DEAR Lord, — It gives mc great joy to know that the countess, your lord-
ship, Lord Strathnaver, and my little darling, Lady Betty, are all in good health.
I pray for the long continuance of the same with all my heart. It's impossible
to express the condition I am in when evry body tells that dear Lady Betts still
Temembers me. Whoever contributes to keep up that remembrance (till I have
the pleasure to see the little angel) shall have my bles&ing. Enclos'd I send your
lordship the copy of a discharge granted by Captain Ross to Brody, who was
minister of Kildonan two years after he left Sutherland. The reason why I send
it is because I observed ane arrear carry'd on in the books against Brody, tho' its
certain he has pay'd all he was due the family. Send it to Cairnfield that he may
nottice it to the arbiters 'twixt Alexander Ross and your lordship; for otherwise
Ross will get credit for the arrear standing on the books (which, by the bve, I
don't know the extent of), and your lordship can never recover it of Brody's heirs
because of the discharge. Robert M'Allaster is writer of the discharge, and should
have minded it. I took the enclos'd copy from the principal^ which I saw and
compared in Brody's hands, who is minister of Latheron at present. I wish your
240
FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS.
[1739.
lordship joy of your new purchase. It must thrive, for your lordship has pay'd
a full price fur it. If your lordship ean spare me 80 bolls lime or thereby,
■ I'll pay readdy money. I ean't be otherwise provided in haste or would not
trouble your lordship. 1 shall take speciall care of your pistolls and return them
safe, meantime I thank your lordship for the use of them. The only news here
is the Earl of Morton's story with Sir James, with which I know Morton has
acquainted your lordship.
I offer my most respectful! compliments to the countess, and my blessings
hearty to Lordy and Lady Hetty, and am unalterably, my dear lord, your affec-
tionate eousine and faith full humble servant, John SUTHERLAND.
Nottingham, 8th August 1739,
230. Hugh Rose, Nairn, to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, — about
the purchase of the estate of Siddera. 10th August 1739.
My Lord, — Your geting Siddera, and your being so well pleas'd with the pur-
chase too, gives me more joy than I believe any thing of the kind will till I ean
make such a purehase myself. I did not imagine, indeed, when I advis'd the
buying it, that it had all the conveniencies your lordship mentions to me now.
But I thought it a. right thing to secure the reversion of it to your family, even if
you was oblig'd to wadset it again, and your lordship shou'd neglect no purchase
of this kind that offers in Sutherland. You are in better condition to make them
than your neighbours. You have the most natural right \ besides that if a man
neglects these things when they offer 'twill very often happen that he'll wish for
them when he cau't get them. I recommended Mr. Clerk as a ehirurgeon to your
lordship merely for your service and the country's, but as you have provided
yourself otherwise to your satisfaction, I am very well pleas'd that he remain
here. My Lady Sutherland did not acquaint my wife if Mr. Smith was to come
here to draw her picture. I am sorry I eannot before hand promise him any
custom out of this family, but I wou'd fain hope that his own work will procure
him more.
I am, my lord, j'our lordships most obliged and most obedient humble
servant, Hugh Eose.
Nairn, August 10th, 1739.
1730.] JAMES, LORD DOCXE. 241
2 -to. Javf«, Lord Doune, to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, —
about the earl's sister at St. Cecilia's concert. 28 th November 1739.
My Lord, — Tho' this town at present affoards me very little to say, yet I cannot
help giving your lordship the trouble of this epistle to assure you that you have
not, neither in this place nor any where else, a more sincere freind than the
writter. From London, as your lordships corrospondanee there is better then
mine, I shall say nothing, only every thing goes on swimmingly before the parlia-
ment, and it is said the patriots will give the ministry no disturbance this session.
1 have been some days in this town, which is dull enough. I got one glisk of
our sister, West kirk, at St. Cseeilias concert, who was not amongest the ugliest
there, fur there were a great number of debts. She and I are like too buckets.
She left the towu on Saturday last and is to be in to-morrow, and I am obliged
to leave it tn-morrow, so that I cannot give the countess the satisfaction to tell
her whither her sister is well or ill. The towu is pleased to say that your sister
is to preferr Lord Dare to C. Calquehoun. I sate by them both at St. Csecilias,
and eou'd hardly beleive my own eyes (I mean your sisters), there is so very
great a change upon Lady Gennet for the bettir since she was last at Dunrobin.
They will marry me here whither I will or not ; and indeed they give me all the
fine ladys iu town. I wish I were able for them all. But alas! I am not for
any one of them, so I rest all their humble servant. Duke Hamilton, whom I
had the honour to take tother night by the fore finger, is like to get seuenty
thousand pounds sterling of Selkerks money, a shilling of which was never
intended him. His Grace, I am told, is to protect a set of players in the Can-
nongate this winter, to the no small satisfaction of the ladys. The Lyon is this
moment gone from me. "We are to meet in the market this night, I mean the
assembly, tho' I cou'd be happier with one I cou'd name upon the Breas of
Birridale theu with all the fine ones that will be there.
I am the countesses most devoted servant, not forgetting my son-indaw and
Lady Betts. May you be all as happie as I wish you, for I am, my dear lord,
with great sincerity and truth, your lordship's most affectionate freind and
devoted humble servant, DoUNE.
Edinburgh, November 28th, 1739.
24-2
FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS.
[1739.
2 41.- Mr. Andrew Monro, London, to William, sixteenth Earl of Suther-
land, — inquiring about a lead mine on the Sutherland estate, etc. 1st
December 1739.
My Lord, — It gave me great pleasure to know by a letcr from my brother Hugh,
dated 1st November, that your lordship, the coimtoss, and the young plants were
in good health. My brother wrote me that Baillie Arburtlmot had write to your
lordship auent your bear. I had once, indeed, thoughts of bueyiug large quan-
titys for this mercat, but now I hove given over that resolution, because the
prices here are fain verie much by reason that there is no export to Portugal or
Spain, so that at present the most 1 coud ofer your lordship is 8 shillings per
boll for what coud be deliverd in February.
My servant hase write me-that your lordship wrote him that my brother owed
you about £50 or £C0 sterling, and that till he pay'd, your lordship wou'd not
pay me. Its not in my power to pay my brother's debts at present, and as the
one hase no collection with the other, I hope your lordship will be so good as to
cause remitt to my servant the contents of your two bills due at Mertimas and
£32 due since April 173S for the 2 hogsheads shcrie. The last necessars I sent
your lordship is not to be demanded at this time.'
I was the other day with a company of merchants here who deals only in
lead miues. If I remember weel I seed once with your lordship some lead ore.
If that ore is one your own estate, or if it can serve your lordship, let me know
your conditions, where the mine lyes, and if near the sea, and I will do all in
my power to engadge these gentlemen, who are rich men, to work the mine ; and
by first ship send me a sample of the oare. Your lordship hase heard ere now
that the C Highland companis are regiemented, and four companys more are to
be aded, that Earle Crawford is colonel and my chief livtcnant-colonel. Poor
Earle Crawford lyes ill near Breda of his wounds. Fifteen splinters are come out
of his thigh bone, and its certain his' life is in danger, which indeed is a great
pity, as he is ane honour to his countrey. It is thought when he comes home
that the king will give him a more lucrative post as a regiement. In that event
my cheif will be prefer'd to be colonel of that regiment.
"Wee have a report here which is told by a Jew, who had a ship arived to
him the other day from Giberalter, that Admiral Hadock had taken 2 Spanish
men of war and a Genoese ship, with 20 chests of silver, goeing to Cadix, and
1742.] ALEXANDER BRODIE OF BRODIE. o 43
4000 dollars in each ehest. Jts certain Spain will be soon humbled, as France
hitherto declines to be concerned in the war.
I beg leave to ofer Your lordship, the countess, brother Tar. and our young
snter my dutiefull respects. I'll do myself the honour to write to the eountess
how soon I can pick up any news to entertain her with. — I am, with great
esteem, my lord, your lordship's most obedient, most humble servant,
Andrew Monro.
London, 1st December 1739.
242. Alexander Brodie of Brodie, Lyon King of Arms, to [William, six-
teenth Earl of Sutherland],— sending him pamphlets. 20th Decem-
ber 1739.
My GOOD Lord, — As you desired me to st-nd you pamphletts, and furnished me
with a sum of money to defray the expence of them, I have not neglected a post
since I eame to town without sending some, and, if 1 cannot pick up any better,
I beg you may not lay the blame on me.
The skimmer which I send you to-day I read some years ago when it did
divert me, aud hope it will do so to your lordship, which is all the use of them
I know. The other pamphlet is too scurrilous upon the ladies, else I had sent it as
an answer to the Last to the eountess ; however, as there [is] humour in some places,
I hope it won't be offensive to your lordship, since you have the happyness to
reflect that one of those despicable creatures has not fallen to your lot, and tho'
you have not found one so learned as Sappho, that you have found one so agree-
able as Angelica ; and while you think so, join'd with content, you must be eom-
pleatly happy, which is the sincere wish of your faithfull slave. For, as I have no
news to write in this vacation, I must eonelude with assuring your lordship once
more of my being most sincerely, your faithfull slave, Alexr. Brodie.
London, December 29th, 1739.
243. Alexander Brodie of Brodie, to William, sixteenth Earl of Suther-
land, — with adviee about business in London. 15th December [1742],
Good my Lord, — I hope this will find your lordship, my lady, and family, met
with some of your friends makeing merry over some Christmass fare; and for
244 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1713.
your entertainment I send such fare as tins place aft'oords at present. And if
both the Caithness and the Murray gentry attend your lordship upon this occa-
sion, as they intended, 1 believe they must be lodged in the hospital, and as they
may be most numerous, the first dish I send your lordship is for them, not that
I think thcra fools for choosing such a good quarter upon such an occasion, but to
save your claret, since this dish may help to raise a laugh without the other
bumper. And my next recipe for this use is Mr. Millers jests, where you will
find some good, some bad, and many of them indifferent. And for the coun-
tesses entertainment 1 send something more serious, and tho' the female author
lyes a litle, yet she does it with a very good grace, and so I forgive her.
But in the next place, to be more serious with your lordship, I have talkd a
good deal of you to the Earl of Hay, after conversing both with Sinclair and
Munro, and, upon the whole, shall only observe,— First, Sir Ufobert] W[al])ole]
delegates his power in Scotch affairs to my Lord of I[lay] almost entirely. So
your lordship must address hirn accordingly. Secondly, if you ask a general, its
asking nothing at all. You must condescend and say what it is you would be at,
either for yourself or your friends. And when you have determined that with
yourself, write a letter to the Peer yourself and ask what you want, and inclose
that to your nearest friend here, the Brigadecr, and instruct him to say plainly
you won't be pleased if such and such a thing is not done for you ; and when your
frieuds has this under your baud it enables them to speak for you the more freely.
And if they don't succeed this winter your lordship ought to come up the next ;
nay, in all events, your lordship should come up the next to secure your own
seat in parliament, and to adjust other Election matters which you will negotiate
better personally than att second hand, and in case you find yourself neglected
to go yourself both to Sir Efobert] and the king. But I dare say you'll have no
occasion for anything of this kind, since I heard my Lord of Hay speak very
kindly of you, and declare how strong he had an inclination -to serve you, altho'
it was not in his power to get such a thing as a company for your friend Forse
at first. However, if you bad been here to have push'd it yourself with the king
I believe it might have done. But upon this subject I have wrote particu-
larly to Forse himself to which I referr. We are like to have a very peaceable
session of it, so there is no occasion for your lordship comeiug up this winter,
tho', as I have already said, it may be absolutely necessary to do it the next.
And now upou this subject 1 have only to add that, as your lordship was pleased
17 45.] GEORGE, THIRD EARL OP C ROM ARTIE. 215
to speak to nie upon these subjects at Dunn/bin, and to desire me to write to you
upon them from thence, so I have obey'd your lordships commands most faith-
fully, since I have given you my sincere opinion, and such advice as 1 would take
to myself, if I was so happy as to be in your scituntion. And as this my freedom
proceeds from an entire regard to your lordships person and family, I hope I
may be pardoned if I have said anything amiss, with which I conclude, after assur-
ing your lordship that nobody is or can be more faithfully and sincerly, my good
lord, your lordships most obedient, most obliged, and entirely devoted servant
than • Alexr. Brodie.
London, December 15th.
Indorsed: Letter from Alexander Brodie, Loudon, to Earl Sutherland, 15th
December 1742.
214. George, third Earl of Cromartie, to William, sixteenth Earl of
Sutherland, — requesting the use of his horse, Punch. 3d June 1743.
My Lord, — The reason of my giving your lordship the trouble of this is to ask
the use of your ston'd horse Punch for two coach mares of mine. They never
Avere boated, so that they cannot cross ferries ; and I know Punch of old to be
so polite a horse that he wou'd not have the lady 3 come to him. I therefore beg
your lordship -will send him here for a day or two, and he shall be very well
cared for till he 's returned. My wife and I make offer of our compliments to
Lady Sutherland. I am, my lord, your lordship's most obedient, most humble
• servant, Cromertie.
Tarbat House, 3d June 1743.
245. Lady Helen Sutherland or Colquiioun, address wanting, but probably
to Captain Noble of Farm, — about the Macgregors. 1
Poscdoe House, January 5, 1745.
Sir, — I received yours this moment. AVe had an alarm last -night that the
Maigregors had crossed Lochlomond and were at Inverbeg, but the thing tourned
out to be intirely groundless, otherways you may deppend upon it I had been att
1 Original letter in tlie Charter- chest of Captain Andrew Noble.
246
FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS.
[1715.
Dumbarton Castle ere now. I verey much approve of General Campbelles orders
to secure all the boat?, and for an example to all the countrey, I sent to Dum-
barton some days ago two of ours. I can command as mane men as the Generall
can need for the above purpose, bat for amies thay have nixt to none. I shall
derectly gave orders to our folkes to gave all the assistance thay can to your
party. I shall make the commanding officer verey wellcom hear; and I am, sir,
your humble servant,
p.&_Please see that Mr. Colquhoun's trunk that came with Generall
Campbell's be in the castle.
246 John McDqnell of Glengarry to William, sixteenth Earl of
Sutherland,— asking him to stay proceedings which the earl's factor had
taken against him. 18th April 1715.
My Loud— I have the honour of writting your lordship this line. I am brought
to stand pannall by your factor, Master Gray, which is so disagreeable and dis-
honourable, tho' he favours me with the most of the gentlemen of this countrey
to stand with me, is most displeasing to me. I am convinced this is unknown to
one of your lordships honour and character, and I am so selfish to think the htle
acquaintance I had the honour of you did not intitle me to, and I dare assure your
lordship it is my oppinion the innocence of the rest my friends pannalled will more
attribute to their honour than any triflling expence it can give them ; your lordship
is best ind-e how to allow such proceedings to go on. As I am tender and m a bad
way of health, your lordship's ordering your factor to disclaim me will be a singular
obligation put upon me. I shall always be sensible of and make all the just
returns to shall happen to be in my weak power. This scrape that my friends and
I are char-ed for I hope in God will appear in the eyes of the world to have been
villaiuou/and mallicious. I never was informed of any concern my Lord
1745.] J0I1X 2FD0XELL OF GLEXGARUY. 247
Sutherland had with what I and my friends are loaded with, either by the
honour of a letter from himself or any other in his behalf. All I have to say is
to beg pardon of your lordship in giving you the trouble to make oiler of my
most humble duty to the Lady Sutherland and your familly, and to assure your
lordship of my friendship, which I dare pledge my honour will be true and right.
My wife, who has had the honour of seeing you, and was delighted with your
clanship to the familly of Gordon, when merry att Mny, begs her compliments
be acceptable to the Lady Sutherland, your lordship, and familly. I am
unfeignedly and without reserve as wee parted.. — Your most obedient and most
oblidged humble servant, John McDonell off Glengary.
Invergary, Aprile 18th, 17-i5.
P.& — I beg your lordship will excuse my making use of a nigh friends hand,
as it was with difficulty I was able to sign my name. If any villains, whither
tennants to me, or vagabonds sometimes residing in this countrey, tlio' I knew no
concern your lordship had, I promised to one, Sanders Mackintosh, who was driver
of the eatle part was taken of, to oblidge any tennaut payed me to the value of a
crown or ten shillings, they should compear before the sherrive or any com-
petent judge in the couut[r]ey to be tryed according to law. This, I believe, is
what one and all the wittnesses charged against me can attest, and what I declared
previously to Major Tallbott, Governour CauEeld, and Captain Ulack. All them
gentlemen of honour, if your lordship requires it, will write you this.
John McDonell of Glengary.
247. John McDonell of Glengarry to William, sixteenth Earl of
Sutherland, consenting to the earl's proposal to have the complaint
against him submitted to arbitration. 28th April 1745.
My Lord, — I had the honour off your lordship's of date the 22nd currant,
which was so oblidging and kind to me in particular that I can never acquitt
myself of the honour and warm expressions you honour me with in your letter,
and the simpathie you haue with my friends in general]. I dare venture to
assure your lordship we are very sensible off it, and shall doe all in our power
to serue your lordship in this or any other thing shall happen as far as in us lys,
being timously advertised,. tho at the same time I thank God the disgrace of being
218
FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS.
[1745.
classed with a parcell of cannarle to stand pannall'd with them for such a dis-
honourable crime, being ait and part by councell or othenvays, was all gave us
trouble, which your lordship will find by the decreet arbitrar will be faet. I
return your lordship hearty thanks for the friendly proposall you made in yours
of the affair being submitted, which I heartily come into, as docs all the gentle-
men cited, who goe to-morrow within ten miles of Inverness to wait of your lord-
ship's factor. I assure your lordship it is as representing you, not on his own
account, as we think we owe him little respect for the manner of his procedure
against us, without so much as advising me in time that your lordship had any
concern. My wife joins me in begging our most humble duty be acceptable to
my Lady Sutherland, your lordship, and family. 1 humbly beg pardon for mak-
ing use of another hand, as I still continue in a bad way eonfin'd to bed. I beg
leive to assure your lordship that I am, with great regard and esteem, your lord-
ship's most obliged humble servant, John McDonell off Glengary.
Invergarie, April 28th, 1745.
P.S. — I will subscriue the submission in terms of your lordship's letter, and
shall send the same to Glenbucket to accept theroff, and shall cause my friends,
attend any day the arbiters shall appoint.
To the right honourable the Earle of Sutherland.
248. Alexander Brodie of Brodie, Lyon King of Arms, to William,
sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, — about the Duke of Gordon and the
office of President of the Police. 4th May 1745.
My Lord, — I have heard from more hands than one that your lordship has been
told that I brought up the Duke of Gordon to solicite the place of president of
the police, etc., etc., and had solicited for him here accordingly, whereas the fact
is, the Duke of Gordon ask'd it only of my Lord Aberdeens friend, Granville,
before he resigned, and wrote to him for that purpose long before I left Scotland.
It is also true that the duke never ask'd my assistance. But the thing was over
before I left Edinburgh, aud so the lye does not sound well. Meantime, if it was
necessary, I could bring you declarations from the Duke of Gordon, and every
body conceni'd, of the falsehood of the aspersion. But as I had said so much in
1745.] ALEXANDER BRODIE OF BllODIE. 249
your lordships favours in my letters to the Marquis of Tweedale, Mr. Pelhani,
and Sir R. Rich, so on my own account, if I had had no respect fur }*our lordship,
I would not have given myself the -lye. I shall not pretend to guess who was
your lordships informer, and, for my own part, I despise all those scounclrells that
are capable of makeing lyes, and I look down with pity on those that, when they
do make them, have not art enough to make them appear somewhat probable ;
and as for } r our lordships part, I hope it will give you one piece of instruction not
to trust, upon another occasion, any man capable of so greatly imposeing on your
lordship with false aspersions of any gentleman 'whom you honour with, your
countenance or friendship.
One thing more I must take notice of, and that is that your anonymous author
says I have bragg'd of haveing the direction of your lordship ; to which I answer,
If he'll show I have said it to any one of those I eat and drink with, I shall
submit to the character of infamous. But I believe I can prove that some other
person has said so to all the great men of all denominations, and has reaped the
benefit of it. Besides, I have no plot upon your lordship. I can have none. I
never a<=k'd any favour of you except to concurr in helping our mutual friends to
better bread. This is all that, is at present necessary on this subject.
I am next to acquaint your lordship that the king has order'd the raising of
another Highland regiment, which is to be given to Karl Loudon, and the companys
and subalternships to be given to Highland lairds and their sons, as shall be
recomended by the Dukes of Argyll and Atholl and the Earl of Stair ; and that I
do think you should, without loss of time, write to the Duke of Argyll, the Earl of
Stair, the Marquis of Tweedale, and Mr. Pelham, in favours of John Sutherland of
Forse, And really when so many are already given away, and so many more to be ,
given away, I should think it would be useing your family ill if they don't allow
you the nomination of one of them, especially a man that has so good a title, and
the only one for two northern Highland counties. I have already ask'd it for him,
and made use. of your lordships name, but am afraid it won't do without your
lordship writing the pretensions your family has of being taken notice of upon
such an occasion, Nay, I do think it will be affronting you if 'they don't take
notice of you, in the disposal of them. However, if you choose to carry the point,
don't write in so high a stile as you did once with a threatning before, which
gave great offence.
I am just going to the countrey, and design to be at home by the 29th, so
2 I
2o0 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1745.
your letters may be sent by the post, or to Mr. Baird to deliver as you think
most proper ; but I think Mr, Laird may have the delivery of all but Pelhams
since he knows them.
I offerr my most respectfnll compliments to the countess, and am, with great
regard, my good lord, your lordships most faithfull and most obedient humble
servant, Alexr. Brodie.
London, May 4th, 1745.
249. John McDoxell of Glengarry to Wflliam, sixteenth Earl of Suther-
land, — requesting to have the sentence of fugitation against him rescinded.
11th May 1745.
My Lord, — I haue the honour to write you this by Cousine Lochgarrie, who
I haue commanded to goe with it, much contrary to his inclination, having been
very ill used as I understand, I very well knowing the strong attachment he had
to serue your lordship and family. I am now to tell your lordship, on account
of the intyre confidence. I had in your lordship's most kind and friendly letter
to me, I haue undergone a sentence off fugitation ; but to show your lordship
I am still inclinable to k^ep fritr.dship with your lordship and family of Suther-
land, and doe your lordship aud them all the service in my weak power, as
friendship that is not mutuall cannot be off any long standing, I coud heartily
wish your lordship would fall on a proper method to get the fugitation reshinded
in ane honourable manner, as Mr. Gray has allready contradicted your lordship's
possitiue orders, particularly as to me. It is necessary he subscriue anything off
friendship your lordship pleases to come into, but, by God, if any such underline
pettie fellow woud have used my honour and character as he has done your
lordship's, I would be in no manner of streat how to deall with him, not even by
my son were he guilty off such. And notwithstanding I coud not attend at Iuver-
ness without hazarding my life, which was attested by a minister and phisitian
(doctors and divines, tho not lawyers), had I thought any under your lordship durst
refuse or contradict your lordship's positiue command or will, which I m certain
they have done, I had run the risque of being carried in a cedan or litter, should
I have lost my life in the atenipt, e'er I had allowed a fugitation against me.
And tho our enemys woud wish to keep us at varience and at a distance, and
doe blow the coll as much as in their power, yet if your lordship inclines to doe
1745.] COLOXEL JAMES OGLETHORPE. 251
the just and right thing, as your lordship's character always was to be one of
the strictest honour, your lordship, in a little time hereafter, will acknowledge
they have not been friends to either our familys woud advise the coutrary.
I beg your lordship take the trouble to make offer of my most humble duty
to my Lady Sutherland and family, and accept of the same in the sincerest manner
from, my lord, your lordship's most obliged and obedient humble servant,
John McDonell off Glengary.
Invergarie, May 11th, 1745.
F,S. — I refer to my cousine and the other gentlemen I 'm hopefull will
wait of your lordship with him to tell you more fully my mind. All I want
is a positiue answer. Your lordship is first, and probably shall be the last ever
1 shall pretcud to force my friendship on so much, Adue.
To the ris;ht honourable the Earle of Sutherland.
250. Colonel James Oglethorpe to William, sixteenth Earl of Suther-
land,— regarding the eari's offer to give assistance to the country at the
head of his vassals. 13th June 1745.
My Lord, — I received the honour of your lordships, and am extreamly glad to
hear that your lordship hath with great generosity offered your assistance at the
head of your vassals to your country in the present perplexed situation of affairs.
Your lordships behaviour upon this occasion is worthy your ancestors, and doubt
not but it will meet with the just approbation of his Majestys ministers, as it does
with due gratitude from all who wish well to their country and the libeTtys of
Europe.
There is nothing I should be more desirous of than that the gentleman you
mention (my worthy friend, Major Mackay) should be advanced-, and I know of
none more capable of forming a corps than he is, and establishing good discipline.
The Highlanders behaved so well at Tournay that all agree 5000 more sucli
men would have changed the fortune of that day. If I can be of any service
here in speaking, acting, or negotiating this matter, I shall be proud of your com-
mands, being, my lord, with profound respect, your lordships most obedient
humble servant, James Oglethorpe.
If this succeeds, permit me to mention to your lordship one who bears your
FAMILY AND DOMESTIC LETTERS.
[1745.
name and has done honour to it. I mean Mr. Patrick Sutherland, now a
lieutenant in my rpgiment.
London, 13th June 17-15.
To the right honourable the Earl of Sutherland, these.
251. George, third Lord Reay, to William, sixteenth Earl of Suther-
land, — regarding the questions in dispute between them. 1st July 1715.
My Lord, — It was one of the principall maximes which I laid doun at my first
setling iu this country, for my conduct in civil life, that I should mantain an
inviolable attachment to the honour and interest of the family of Sutherland.
Your lordships grandfather and father were so well satisfyed of my zeal to serve
them that they alhvlse trusted to my fidelity and friendship, and never was diss-
apointed ; I exspected in like manner to have shared in your lordships friendship
aud confidence, and did all in my power to deserve it on every occasion wherin
either your lordships honour or interest required it, until I found that some of
these, whom your lordship favoured most, persued measures ineousistant with the
interest of my family, and in my weak judgement, not alltogether calculated for the
interest of the family of Sutherland, or your lordships honour or quiet. It was
these persons and these measures which I found myself obliged to oppose, and
not the Earl of Sutherland nor the true interest of his family. For I alhvise
looked on myself not only as a relation, but the first friend of the family of
Sutherland, as being most capable to serve them in all events j and whenever
your lordship is disposed to consider me in that light, you '1 find me as firmly
attached to your honour and interest, and that of your familys, both at home aud
abroad, as I have been in your grandfather and father's time. I heartily wish
that all our differences were buiyed in oblivion, and to that end I have made some
proposells which 1 think are equalb and honourable, and for the real interest of
your lordships family, as well as my own, and which my son George will lay
before you whenever your lordship pleases. I have the honour to be, with great
respect, my lord, your lordships most obedient, most humble servant,
Reay.
Tongue, 1st July 1745.
To the right honourable the Earl of Sutherland, Dunrobin.
1745.] ROBERT CRAJGIE OF GLEXBOICK. 253
252. Robert Craigie of Glendoick, Lord Advocate, to William, sixteenth
Earl of . Sutherland, stating his satisfaction at the reconciliation
between his Lordship and Lord Kcay.
Edinburgh, 2 2d August 1745.
My Lord, — I have the honour of your lordships of the 11th and 15th. They
came to my hand much about the same time, the Council post that brought the
first having been taken ill upon the road.
I am very sensible of the inconvenience it is to his Majestys friends, and the
prejudice that accrues to the governmeut at this juncture from the unequal execution
of the Disarming Acts, that they were strictly submitted to by his Mnjestys loyal
subjects, but not so by the enemies to the government. I have stated this matter
to the government and to Sir John Cope, and I hope this will be atteuded to as
far as is possible at this juncture, and more fully in time coming. Sir John
Cope, with a body of the kings troops, is marched into the Highlands, which I
hope will suppress the insolence of the enemies of the government, and enable his
Majestys friends to protect themselves on this occasion.
I received with great pleasuie the account you send me of the thorow recon-
ciliation between your lordship and the Lord Kae. The natural connections
between your lordship and Lord Eae, from the situation of your estates, and from
your principles beiug the same, made me regrete the differences that for some
time past have subsisted between you, and that have appeared iu your political
conduct, particularly in the parliamentary elections, and which I always took to
be the principal hinge upon which your differences turned and were supported,
and for that reason I am very glad that this has been in a particular manner
under your consideration. At the same time, I hope you 'I forgive me to observe
that I do not think it was quite proper that your aggreement touching the elections
shou'd have been reduced into writeing, especially in the way of contract. This
may furnish a handle for objections to those that may be enemies to both in
future elections, and therefore I hope you '1 forgive me to suggest that it might
not be improper, at least before any after election, to transcribe your agreement,
leaving out the last article touching parliamentary election?, and to settle that
article by letteis between your lordship and the Lord Rae, which I dare say will
be equally binding and less exceptionable than the doing it by way of contract.
With respect to the appointing lord lieutennants in the northern countys, I
254 FAMILY AND DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1745.
think your lordships title is unquestionable to the lieutennancy of your own and
of the adjacent countys ; but I have some doubt if the Lords Justices will incline
to take upon them the nomination or the giving instructions. But I hope that
difficulty is by this time removed by his Mnjestys safe arrival at London, for the
yachts were on the other side of the water last week. 1 have the honour to be,
with the greatest truth and respect, my lord, your lordships most faithful! and
most obedient humble servant, Rob. Craigie.
Earl of Sutherland.
253. George, third Lord Keay, to William, sixteenth Earl of Suther-
land,— his readiness to support the honour and interest of the earl.
24th August 1745.
My dear Lord, — I have the honour of your lordships of the 14 and 21. As
the supporting our king with our libertys, civil and sacred, was, as your lordship
justly observes, the chief basis of our late agreement; so, instead of being a dis-
honour, I hope it will be a strong motive to our posterity to follow so laudable
an example, the rather as it must of consequence turn out to their interest and
advantage. T reckon the many letters your lordship is pleased to acquaint me
you get against your joining in friendship with me a double tye on me, to exert
myself all in my power on every occasion to make you as easy as I can, to con-
vince you of my sincerity and ready ness to support your honour and interest, and
thereby to shew others how far they are mistaken, for your lordship will still
find me your fast friend. Meantime, I beg leave to say that I wish that in a
short time you may not see that some had other views more at heart than the
real interest of your lordships family.
I had no accounts by last post. But this morning my son Sandie sent me
M c Leods letter of which you have a eoppy. His major wrote him that Clan
Ranald, Glengarry and Lochiel, were up in. arms, all which the Lyon wrote to
Lan<nvill. Yuu '1 please take care not to name persons names, since it might affect
my son. Meantime, by M c Leods reckoning his son safe in Skye, I judge Sir
Alexander M c Donald will not be rash. I have followed your lordships example
as to listing men ; but without arms and ammunition we can do but very litle. Of
this I write to Sir John Cope in your lordships name and my own, 1 as you should
1 And we need some moe, interlined.
1715.] THOMAS WEDDE11BURX. 255
do, and a double watch should immediately be ordered to Corrie Kean Loch; my
share is sent there allready. But without a landing of consequence from abroad,
all this must soon blow over, to the utter mine of the infatuate gentlemen that
are deluded to concern in it. I shall long for the confirmation of your lord-
ships recovery, and with my humble compliments to the Countess of Sutherland,
I am, with great respect, my dear lord, your lordships most affectionate, most
humble servant, liEAY.
Tongue, 24 August 1745.
P.iS'. — J hope your lordship will reserve some powder and lead for me, for
which I'le pay the value, and share with me when you get any arms. I'm
informed this minute that Major Mackay is called for to London. Your lordship
should write to the Duke of Argyle to get him returned to us, as hel be very
usefull as matters goes.
254. Thomas Weddereurn, collector of excise, to William, sixteenth Earl of
Sutherland, — reporting the battle of Trestonpans. 2Cth September 1745.
My Lotid, — I have no better paper. Your lordships letter I received by my
servant at Inverness, August the 26th. In obedience to your request I wrote
from Nairn, August 28th, what news 1 heard handed about at that time. I was
then upon my collection going eastward. When I had retum'd, and was some
days at home, which was the second week of September, I wrote your lordship a
long letter, just what I heard then. Since that time I heard nothing worth
writting, but what was so late e'er I had it, that 'twas needless then to trouble
your lordship with it. I was in Inverness yesterday, when I heard some
speaking of a person of distinction in the north of Scotland, who was judged too
fore war J in writting news ; and a friend told me, without giving any other satis-
faction, " that I was discreet enough in my way of adviseing news, but that if I
had not, by an instance he knew of, 1 would have heard of it and had cause
to repent it." From this 1 suppose my last letter to your lordship has been
opened, for I have not wrote a scrape on the subject but to your lordship,
and one letter to Doctor Wedderburn at Dundee, which w T as by ane express
from Elgin.
. Yesterday it was said at Inverness that upon Saturday last the forces that
?56
FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LET TEAS.
[1745.
were north with Sir John Cope, being join'd with five eompanys of foot from
Eerwick and those at Edinburgh, making in all three regiments of foot and
two regiments of dragoons, drew up for batle near Cockenie by Prestonpans.
The Highland army, consisting of five thousand, and one thousand from Edinburgh,
attacked them, first with artillery, wherewith they were better provided than the
regular forces, and observing the advantage of the ground against them, Lochail
and Kaputh, with a thousand good men, were ordered to turn about towards the
south-east and attack them in the rear. This made the other leave their ground
and advance. The Highland army, when the dragoons advanced, opened and let
them pass foreward, then faced about and had great advantage. The Highlanders
fired their muskets but once, and then run in sword in hand. In short, its said
they gaind a compleat victory, having killed and wounded 6 or eight hundred,
and taken the rest prisoners, excepting three troop of dragoons, who went off
with Sir John Cope. He went oil in a boat, and was put on board the man of
war who brought him from Aberdeen, and they inareh'd- for Eerwick. The
military chest and all the baggage fell to the Highlanders. One odd piece is that
three troops of Hamiltons dragoons took the Highland side, and three troops that
were making their way for Berwick were puisued by Earsdale and one hundred
and fifty men, who all stript to their shirts, on foot, who overtook the dragoons, I
suppose by turning a hill and gaining ground that way, and made them
prisoners, for which Earsdale was made a knight bannarett. Part of them
retum'd to Edinburgh that night. Major Cawlfield got into the castle of Edin-
burgh, having come otT early. He had no rank there.
It was not said that the president had accounts of this. I belive he had not
yesterday at 1 2 o'clock. 'Twas by express to Lord Lovat, who past thro Inver-
ness yesterday in his coach, going to dine at Culloden, and some people spoke
with him a little in the street, and he confirmed all. I won't say every
particular I mention was asked at him, for there was not time ; but what
I said is allowed by most to be truth, most that I spoke with, and that
way I give it your lordship. I doubt there's too much of it true, whether
it be all true or not. There's 100 or a hundred aud twenty on the High-
land side killed or wounded. I got not a right account of officers killed,
or taken, but Colonel Gardner is said to be dead. I heard of no troops
landed for nor against the goverment. Every body will take their own
reflection what may be the eonscquenee of this both in the north and the south.
1745."
ANDREW MONRO. 257
I cannot find there has been any difference betwixt the two great men your
lordship mentioned.
My wife and I offer our dutyftill respects to your lordship, the countess, and
Lady Betty, and I am, most respectfully, my lord, your lordships most humble and
most obedient servant, Thomas Wedderburn.
Fortrose, 26th September 1745.
r.S.— Some say Glenbuket is gone south, some say not. Yesterday
morning I found no centinell upon the bridge at Inverness, but much about the
time that Lord Lovat came in there was one of one of the Highland compauys
placed upon the bridge. When 1 left Inverness all was quiet there, and we con-
tinue so here as yet.
255. Andrew Monro, to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland —
with news regarding the battle of Prestonpans. 30th September 1745.
My Lord, ... As to farther news concerning the late batell, the aeeountts wee
have of it hitherto apcars more like a romance as any other thing. I seed one
Saturday last one of our towns rimers, who came from Kinghorn last Tewsday
(he was not at all on the Edinburgh side), but certain it is, he could not miss in
Kinghorn to have a true account. He sayes that of Sir John Copes army there
were 500 Mild, 900 wounded, and 1400 taken prisoners. Of the Highland array,
only 30 killd and 80 wounded. He sayes he atempted to cross Kinghorn, and
that the Fox man of war gave chace to the boat he. was in. That he was 3 hours
on board the man of warr, that SO of the red-coats were on board, and that Sir
John Cope and Lord Louden was also on board, that the Dutch were not landed ;
in short, its my humble opinion at the writing of this, if King George do
not bring forthwith over to Brittam the army in Flanders, he may bid adeu to
his crown. Prince Charles is in Edinburgh, and lodges in Holyrood house.
If your lordship gets the news papers this waek you will have it all there. In
short, such a base, cowardly action is not to be paraleild in history. All the
bagage, tents, canon, and military chest are taken. I make no doubt but
Prince Charles will soon be 20,000 strong, and I am credibly informed Lord Eleho
behav'd most galantly in the action. I am, with best respects to your lordship
2 K
25S
FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1746.
and the countess, my lord, your lordships most obedient and most humble
Andrew Monro.
servant,
Inverness, 30th September 1745.
The Mackintosh's are in motion, as are the Erasers. The President keeps a
100 men in his house, aud some p&teraroes mounted. Lord Louden and Sir
John Cope are at Benvik.
256. Eric Sutherland, Lord Duffus, to William, sixteenth Earl of
Sutherland,— stating that he will wait upon the earl at Dunrobm.
2 2d April 1746.
MY DEAR Lord,— I heartily congratulate your safe return to your own house,
but regrate I had not the opportunity of seeing you before I came to Caithness.
I was under an absolute necessity of taking the first occasion of bringing my wile
from home. I stiir'd not a step from my own door from the day you left your
countrv till the day I set out for Caithness, so that I was not near Dunrobm in
your absence. The reason whereon", and of other matters which occurrd, I shall
communicate at meeting, which I pray God may be soon in peace and quiet,
which is a blissing wee ought always to be sensible and thanktull for. It is
reported that you are immediatly to return to Inverness. But the moment I
heer you are settled at Duurobin, I shall have the honnour to waitt on you with
all expedition and ever am, my lord, your lordship's most obliged and faithtull
! . \ . DUFFUS.
humble servant,
Akergill, Aprill 22d, 1746.
To the right honourable the Earl of Sutherland.
257 Lieutenant-General James St.' Clair, to William, sixteenth Earl of
Sutherland,— about William, Lord Strathnaver s, progress at school.
London, April 25th, [1746].
My dear LORD -I was greatly ourjoyed to learn by Lord Bary [Bury], aid-de-
camp to his roval highness, that he had left yow in good health affter ail the
fatigues, disstresVs, and missfortunes that had been brought on yow by the rebells,
who" I hope are now in a way of receveing conding punishment for the bar-
baritys and insolences commited by them.
1746.] SIR JAMES COLQUIIOUX OF LUSS. 259
On James Bairds application to mo to assist him in a solicitation to the
Treasury fur payment of what is oweing yow as president of the police, T went
with him to Mr. Pelhams house, and also to the Treasury Office, where with
difficulty they have at last consented to order vow payment for one year of what
is due, and that is instantly to be applyed by Mr. Baird as yow directed. Your
minister, Gilchrist, has been here some moneths. I have seen him seldom, nor do
I know what he has been doeing, save that a few days agoe he hinted to me that
he had been sent up by yow to sollicite a regiment. I have not heard either from
the countess or yow but once since I went last year to Flanders, and that was in
the moneth of August, to which I instantly returned yow ane answer which
possibly might have been intercepted by the rebells. And since that time to this
I had little chance of any letters comeing to your hands in safety. My sister I
find has been much in the same situation with hir nice.
I nm ordered on ane expedition to America, and shall leave England by the
10th day of nixt moneth, but how longe I am to remaine abroad is to me as yet
unknown. Your son was with me all the Chiistmass holy days, and is doeing
extreamly well at his book, and behauiug in every other respecte to the satissfae-
tion of his masters. I shall see him soone either in my way to Portsmouth, or
have him brought there to me before I imbarke. Counsellor Erskiue, in my
absence, is to have the direction and inspection into his horsing, and Tom Wilson
and James Baird are to have a strict charge that he want for nothing that is
nessesary for him to have. I offer my blissiug and best wishes to the countess,
and am, my dear lord, your affectionate uncle and most humble servant,
Jas. St. Clair.
To the right honourable the Earle of Sutherland ■ to the eare of the post master
of Inverness, by Edinbrugh.
253.. Sir James Colquhoun of Luss, Baronet, to William, sixteenth Earl
of Sutherland, — congratulating him on the victories of Cullodeu and
Golspie.
Rosedoe, 14 May 1746.
My Lord, — I take this oppertunity of congratulating your lordship upon the two
late victoiys obtained over the rebells, to witt the battle of Culloden and that of
Golspey, which has gained great honour to your lordships people. I hope this
260
FAMILY AND DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1746.
nnaturall rebellion is now pritty near a close, and that those poor unhappy deluded
people who u.ie the occasion of it will in due time meet with their deserts for
beiii- the instruments of so much bloodshed. As the communication twixt your
lordSnps eountrey and this I presume is now open, it would be very satisfactory
to my wife and me to know from your lordships oun hand that your lordship
and the Countess of Sutherland enjoy perfect health, as likewise our friends in
Caithness, who I find had afco the company of those disturbers of our peace with
them If I am not verv much mistaken there '« a horse or two belonging to your
lordship in my neighbourhood, which belonged to the Marquis of Tilhbardms
cavalcade, who lately surrenderd himself to my neighbour, Mr. Buchanan of
Drummiekill ■ the one I take to be the eounteses pounie, and the other the grey
horse which shee got from the Lyon; the pounie was in the possession of one
Mr Warren, who made his escape, but owned he had taken him from Dunrobme,
and the Marquiss servants confirms it ; the grey horse they say was brought from
En-land, but in my oppiniou it : s the very same the Lyon gave you. If your
lordship pleases to write me desireing 1 may get them, and also send their marks,
I shall apply for them, and keep them untill your lordship either sends a servant
or desire them to be sent you; but write soon, else they will be disposed of for
the behoof of one Michclli, an Italicn. There's seven other horses were taken
from them, possibly some of them may likewise belong to your lordship, but send
me their marks and 1 shall take care to secure them for you. Lady Strathnaver
is soon goeing for Edinburgh ; her ladyship is very nneasie that shee has not heard
from your lordship since your leaving Dunrobme. She is in daily expectations
of a letter. My wife offers her kindest compliments to your lordship, the Countess
of Sutherland, and Lady Betty, in which I beg leave to joyne, who am, my lord,
your lordships most affectionate and faithfull humble servant,
J Ja. Colquhoun.
259. David Bruce, Judge Advocate, to William, sixteenth Eael of
Sutherland,— his willingness to serve the Earl as he has occasion.
Fort Augustus, 7th June 174G.
My Lord— Sir Everard Falconer wrote you of yesterdays date, to which I referr
your lordship. His Royal Highness expressed himself very anxiously anent your
health, but Sir Everard wrote you of that, etc.
1746.] MR. JAMES ERASER, MINISTER OF ALNESS. 261
As to Captain Gordons petition, they have not time to doe any thing about
it at present. But 1 doe assure your lordship I shall not faill in keeping your
lordship and your friends (who have done so much for the government) in remem-
brance.
I choosed to keep your servant till to-day, thinkeing to hear of some kings
ship that might be comeing to your cost, and to see and gett an order for your
lordships getting your passage in her ; bat the disposition they are iu at present
renders that quite inconvenient. You may assure yourself if ever it lyes in my
■way of serving your lordship or any of your concerns, it shall not be wanting on
my part, and as 1 sincerely wish you well, I advise your setting out for London as
soon as possible, that others may not gett the glory of what every body here
thinks your lordship has a just tittle to. This I only hint to you. 1 intend being
at Internes on Tuesday, when [I] should be fond of seeing your lordship.
A confirmation of Lord Lovitts being taken is just now arrived, and that he
was seised by the leutennent of the Furnace at the head of a fresh water loch in
the iseland of Murra.
Cameron of Dungallon has surrendered himself to Lord George Sackvile.
Young Glengary is taken, and ten of his men came in her yesternight and
surrendered themselves. The army will move from this Friday next, it is
believed.
General Husk returns you thanks for the present of your sheep, and never faills
of drinking your health.
The Duke is well, and the army in high spirits. Captain Scot at Fort "William
has hung up three rebell Camerous to prevent a tryall on' them. About 200
Camerons have delivered up their arms, and sixty Frasers.
If your lordship has not sent back the horse you wrote for to the gomesaras,
I shall take him for the chaise at what price you shall judge proper. If so, may
order Fraser to give him to my servant. I am, my lord, with esteem and regaird,
your .most obedient and most humble servant, Davlp Bruce.
260. Mr. James Fraser, Minister of Alness, to 'William, sixteenth Earl
of Sutherland, — recovery of a Sutherland parchment writ which had
been carried off by the rebels. 7th June 1716.
My Lord, — I take this opportunity to acquaint your lordship that a parchment
262
FAMILY AND DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1746.
1ms fallen into ray bands that is very ill to read ; but as I think it is a saism
past in the year 1573 of the Laihlom of Sutherland and manner of Punrobin, in
favours of Alexander, then Earle of Sutherland, I would be fond to deliver it to
any having your lordships order to receive it. I doubt not but the vile miscreants
who carried off this have carried off others more valuable. I wish more of them
had fallen in my hands.
The bearer, Duncan M'Cowil, a Bewly man, goes to Sutherland to recover
some cattle that were taken from him, by the loss of which he 's like to be ruined.
He has an attestation from his parish minister of his innocence as to the rebellion,
and I have a letter from another minister attesting to me the great aversion he
shew'd a-ainst that wickedness. As the innocence of a man who had so great
temptations is more noticeable than that of many who were in different circum-
stances, so it cannot be a pleasure to any who suffered by the barbarous rebels
to have their dammage repaired at the expencc of a poor man who was not at all
guilty. Upon these considerations I presume to recommend the poor man to
your lordships equity and friendship.
I pray the lord mav bless your lordship and your noble family, and may repair
to you all the disadvantages yon have sustained in consequence of your steady
and noble appearance for the interest of your countrey during this most wicked
rebellion, and I am, with very great regard, my lord, your lordships most
obedient, most humble servant, jAirES ERASER.
Alness, June 7th, 1746.
061 WlLLUM, SIXTEENTH EARL OF SUTHERLAND, to Mr. GORDON of Caim-
field, his Law Agent-sending the state of his affairs with General
Sinclair. Copy.
Dunrobin, 21st June 1746.
Sir —I had yours of the 11th current, but as the confusion of the times, and the
frequent calls I had to wait on the Duke of Cumberland, with the disorder my
papers were put into by the rehells after breaking open my charter room, and the
hurry I 'm in at present in preparing for my journey to London, which I design
to undertake, God willing Munday next, have straitned me so much that all 1
had time to look for was the state of my affair with General St. Clair, as made up
by yourself when here in September 1743, which I take to be what you wanted,
17-16.]
HUGH MONRO. 263
eopys whereof you have here inclosed, from which you can make up the proper
state, as )ou are in perfect knowledge of the whole transaction, and as you shal
find just, 1 am willing to comply with. As to Dr. Sinclair's bond, you know my
bond of releiff to the Geuerall is retired, that debt being comprehended in the
grand sum for which the last security was granted by me. 1 am alwayes fond of
clearing my credit with every body, and particularly with the General, and
recommend it to you to execute the affair accordingly. And notwithstanding the
late troubles and confusion by which I have suffered more than any one in the
kingdom, yet 1 hope in some short time to be able to clear off all my debts. As
I hear my mother is at Rosedow I don't propose to call at Edinburgh as I have
pressing calls to London. 1 wish you wou'd mind the Admirality seriously as
well as my other affairs, which is all from, sir, your friend,
Indorsed : Copy letter to Cairnfield in answer to his of the 11th current.
2G2. Hugh Monro to William, sixteenth Eaul of Sutherland,— about
the crown rent of Boss, etc. 3d July 1740.
My Lord,— The Countess of Sutherland and Lady Beatty are very well, and 1
hope in God be this tyme your lordship is so, and safely arrived at London, where
you have a great dale to doe; and may Divine Providence direct, assist, and urth
success help your lordship to discharge the same, for the honour of your antient
loyall family and the good of your country, uho proved the first and amongst
the most faith full subjects in Brittain in defeating the rebells in Scotland. I dar
not presume to give your lordship the least hint of things, only out of my loue
aud faithfullness for you, pushes me to be so bold, for a memorandum; that
you T I have still in vew, to prevent (if you can) any subject from geting the crown
rent of Ross, and nameing the collector of it ; as also uhat heritage or wattsetts
may full into the kings hands, either in Assint or Cathiness, being more reasonable
and naturall that your lordship haue the direction of it in uhatever sheap under
his Majcstie.
In the meantyme, that your lordship uill be pleased to cause draw out a
genuine account of the Battle of Golspie upon the lnth April, to inform the
publict of it, that the honour of it (under God) be only due to your lordship and
your people ; I dar say uith uhat information your lordship gote, and my son and
264 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1746.
John Mackay, being nith your lordship, that none uill dar pretend to controll it,
nor ad or deniinish from it.
Tho I had noe publict station from your lordship dureing the unnaturall
rebellion, I had the honour ever since to waite of your lordships person at home
and abroad ; aud as I am very possitive there is nothing you haue more at heart
then the well fair of your people, uhen your lordship uill haue an opportunity to
think of them, I desyre to belive, you '1 not forgut me to any station your lord-
ship uill think me capable to discharge, either in the governments service or
under your lordship, uliich I hopp, in any event, uill be my case all my days.
All the news here that three, independant eompanys uill be this night in
Dornoch, as manny of the regular forces are to follow iti their way to Caithiness,
and reported they uill goc to Orkney.
If your lordship uill allow me to write you weekly or otherwise, that shall be
my rule. And now hopeing forgiueness for my present freedome, uith the humble
respects of us all here, as wee are bound to give, praying to God to bless, pre-
serue, and return your lordship uith great honour and success in due tyme safe
to Dunrobine, with sincere regaurd, I am, my lord, your lordships most obliged,
most obedient, faith full, humble servant, while Hugh Monro.
Clayside, 3d Jully 1746.
263. Katherine, Lady Strathnayek, to her son, William, sixteenth Earl
of Sutherland, — regarding his children.
Abbay, 19th (July) 1746.
My dear son, — I was extremliy pleased to heir of your save landing at London,
and now I hop as the crouu rents is vacont, I am perswaded you may get them if
you be activie ; as you have bein at grat charges thir is no diibt but you wil be
rewarded. Now, my dear son, as Lordie is douing so well, I enjoyu you not to
call for him from the scoull, but reather to sie him befor you com horn att the
scoul, but your staiy I hop att London will be short, and let nothing discurage
you. Your daughter now is long anouf at Dunroben, and if the scols at this
place wuld dow I wod be glad to take her under my inspeckion, but I am quit
aganst her stay wher she is ; but we shal convers of this at miting. Now, as my
pour brother is now, I am hopfull, better, you ought to get him brought down, or
1T4 c] LIEUTEXAXT WILLIAM GCNX. 265
let me know all about him, for its what I am very aneluous about. Mend your
fait in not writing to me, for I aahur you I do not take it well when you negleek.
I writ to Mr. James Haird, your "atturnie, for mony of the quarter that is new
due at Michilmas, one thousand seven hundred and fortiy four— thir is just eight
quarters due att Midsumer last. I left Major Colquhoun, and your sister, tender,
I belive, with child. I wish the Lord may dereck you in all your ways is the
erenest desir and prayer of your loving mother, K. Strathnaver.
To the right honourable the Earll of Sutherland ; to be left at the British
Cofe llous, London.
*64. Lieutenant William Gunn to William, sixteenth Earl of Suther-
land,— enclosing his commission as evidence of the loyalty of the carl's
family.
My Lord,— I had the honour of a commission from your lordships grandfather,
in the year 1715, as lieutenant in the regiment raised by him at that time to
oppose the rebells; and as it is a testimonie of the familie of Sutherlands loyalty
and forwardness at all times to support the present goverment, I judged it might
[be] useful to your lordfship], and send it here inclosed with this view ; and if your
lordship can make anything of it, I shall be always fond, by this or anything else
in my power, to testifie that I am, with the greatest regard, my lord, your lordships
most humble and most obedient and obliged servant, Wm. Gun.
Aehintoul, 1st September 1746.
PJ3—I likewise presume humbly to represent to your lordship that I
attended the garison that was placed in the height of this parish last year,
traveled about the hills with them, and gave them all assistance in my power.
To the right honourable the Earle of Sutherland at his lodgings, London.
[Commission.]
Wee, John, Earle of Sutherland, lord livetennant of the six northern counties,
conform* to and in terras of our sovereign lord King George's commission,
granted by his royall Majestie to us, to the effect underwritten, being fully
2 l
260
FAMILY AND DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1746.
convinced of the loyalty, currage and conduct of William Guune in Badmteoch, by
these presents constitute and appoyut yow, the said William Gun to be second
livetennant in the regiment of foot, commanded by William, Lord Strathnaver,
collonell • and herby commands all inferior officers and souldiers to obey you as
their livetennant, and yow to obey such ordours as yow shall from tyme to tyme
receavc from your superior officers, as ye shall answer to the trust wee repose in
yow Given under oar hand, at Dunrobin, the fonrtcnt day of October (?) 1715.
2G5 John Munro to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland,— informing
him of the violent deeds perpetrated by the rebels. 7th September 1746.
My Lord— I am some to have the occasion of acquainting your lordship of
Captain Munro of Cnllcairne being murdered by a ruffian uho shott him out of a
busk The three bretheren fell the same uay, being massacr'd after the sam
manner Its a sure and steddfast saying, that uhen the nighborhood is m fire
a man should take care of his home. Its a wight upon my spirit to find that
such three true gcntlement should be lost to the gouerment, friends and families ;
and havin- the honor of there relation, and withall being educat with them at
schools and colleges, and withall that your lordUiip should want such a sett of
neighbours in the veric next shyre, consisting of such a long-standing fremd-
shinpe ansrin- alwayes your lordships expectation upon the point of loyalltie
as to 'prmciples and practice, I haue all freedom to say, without ofending
modestie your lordship cannot find ther equals in all the circuit countries. But
they are gone and fell in a good cause, quhich uill giue them a glorious resurec-
tion I wish the providence of the great God may prevent the like accidents
from your lordships noble and loyall person, in case that sade euent should
happen as God forbidde it should. Uho can express the loss the gouerment
uouhl sustain, and for my part I uould be buried quick. Therfor your lordship
uill pardon the freedom of my penne in the following particulars —that some ot
your tenents did nearowlie escape with the risque of ther lives in the paroch of
Reddecastle ; 2ndo, itt is usual that the poor of one countrie goes to other
m6 /j KAT1IERIXE, LADY STRATIIXAVER. 267
countries, but none of this dares aproch the nighbourhood, nor can not;_ 3tio,
the vcric man that caiyed the amunition the day of the batle of Golspie, his
horses were taken away. According to the best intelligence I have, endeavours
arc not wanting to crush the govcrment in being awenged of your lordships
familie and conntrie. I can say I am not a man that startles att shoes, nor was
I eiw afreyed of shaddowes, yet I uas frequence, and ame so to be carefull and
cauteous, provided 1 uas gripped, they should pull oat my tongue and afterwards
sacrafice my person to become food for hawkes. My lord, consider my station,
quhich is but verie loe -and moves in a verio nearow spheare ; but quhen such
desi-nes are determined against me, quhat may be the Light and the deepths oi
the contrivances of such against the Earle of Sutherland, to uhome they attnbut
so many missfortunes. The takeing of ther genrall, killing, uoundmg, droumng,
and takeing captives so many, the reteareing of so many for there releife, all putt
toother occasioned ther missfurtune att Coullodeu. Upon the whole, I can say
that your lord.hip cannot be too cautious or carfull of the number one, and in
doing so it's a favour to goverment, friends, and withall, I haue freedom to say,
that°it shall singularlie contribute to the satisfaction of him who is, my lord,
yours unfeigniedlie to serve you uhile I am, John MuNRO.
Kogart, the 7th of September 1746.
2GG. Katherine, Lady Strathnayer, to her sou, William; sixteenth Earl of
Sutherland,— regarding her annuities.
Abbay, September 18th, 1746.
My DEARST SON,— I am glad to heir from you. It was writ to mc you was spend-
ing your time at Utrecches, and that you have taken en hous for a yeir at London,
and its saved that Lady Sutherland is to pase the winter their, which I am intierliy
against. 1 winder to sie you do not mind my payment. Is it thought that you
will incroach upon my goudnes? 1 shal ashur you I cannot want my payments, as
you know the payments to me ous to come out of the police. I am surprised you
do not case remit me as ousewall ; the disoblidging of me will not tend to your
advantadge. You know I have Siderhall which shuld pay me one hundred
pound, then my curinontt anuitiay, eight thusand nierks, then the anwell rent of
the eritiable bond, in all the anwel rents of my sumes and the anniouitiy comes
26S FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1746.
to seven hundred pound and twintiay two pound sterling and one croun. The
police is due ten quarters, so if you .do not pay me as ouswal I will not delaiy, so
I cxpeck you will not disoblidg me and prcvint furder truble. I offer you my
advise, but you do not take much heid to it. I am your loving and affectionat
mother,
(2^*2
/•
I winder that you keip Lordie from his edu[ca]tion. I wish he may be
brought up in a relidjous way, and give him goud cxempell. And if this be trow
that you have reeved the who! two ycirs, etc., of the police, so that will make
3 T ou a pritiey sum which shuld be aplaiyed for my payment. Let me know the
troth of this, for her spending att Dunrobin, which she shuld have bein inhibet *
but no answer to that, and you spending att London and living your mother in
such a way without payments. Let me know if this be so that you have got in
the police. I shal ashur you I am not prised.
To the right honourable the Earl of Sutherland; to be fordwarded to
Tendrin^ Hall, Sufolk. London.
. 267. Elizabeth, Lady Duffus, to William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland,
— anent the Countess's death and Lady Elizabeth, the Earl's daughter.
2d April 1747.
My Lord, — I tak this oportunity of condoling with your lordship upon the litt
melincholy misfurtun in your lordships family. Howiver, I hop reson and prudenc
will derect you to bear it with that submistion due the great Disposar and
Derectar of all things. Carall cumunicatt to me your lordships inclinations as to
Lady Betty. You may be sure she is as welcome to me as she ware my own, and
accordingly I went dcrectly to Donrobin in order to see the child and bring her
heer. Howiver, the wether was bad, and the child insisted on staying till the
burryal was over, which I consented to, and went and waitted of her that day
myself. After that she shew'd a great avertion to leave Donrobin. Howiver, I
1747.1 ELIZABETH, LADY DUFFUS, 269
imputed that to idle peple who put it in her head, who wanted ther should be a
protuiic of a family keept up. This subgct I will not insist on. Howiver, I made
the ehild easy, and brought her heer with a very fine day, and she has the best
roum in my hous ; her woman, Baby, with her to dorect her d}-ett. Beta's very much
att her devotion to devert her; in shoit, rny lord, ivery thing in my povvr to
aeomadate her. But I 'm rely sorry to tel your lordship I do not think her in a
right state of health, nor by what I can understand has she been sine she had the
meszels. She has a bad cough, briths short, is very thin, and has littel or no
apeteett; besaids this, the sraal pox is raigitig in the contry, and your lordship
kuows we have no phisition or surgon in the eontry. Now, as thos things is
best takin in time, I thought it dutty therfor to litt your lordship know them, that
you might judge what was proper from time to time to advise, me off; I have
wrot fully this post to Lady Strathnever, so lives it to your lordship and her to
judge whither you think the contry in this setuation proper for her or not.
The child still shew anktiety to be att Dourobin, but that I eannot think off, as
she ean have no asistains ther but what I ean give her, and the ehildring with
compienie is a devertion. She is getting spermacety, hysop watter, siveral other
inocent things ; and be asur'd ware she my only child I wowd not be more carfull
or anktious about her. She begs to be remember'd to your lordship, and it will
give me great plesure to be able to give your lordship better acounts of the dear
child, as I wowd willingly hop the warm wether will recrute her, and a tender
turn of this kind is very uswill efter the meszells; but pepel eannot be too foruard
in using meens to prevent the worst. Lady Betty wowd be fond to have a lin
from your lordship, which pleas inelos to me ; it will rouse her littel spiritts and
ineourege her to be blaith and settisfyd. She is very fond of me, and it is my
great study to make her so. Lord Duffus begs to be rememberd kindly to your
lordship, lie has attainded clos att Donrobin sine your orders como, and saw
the countes interment gon about as near your derection as posible. Fridy last
was the day, and he bid Carrol writt your lordship as full as posible, and he
wowd writt him self nixt post. We should be glade to hear of your lordship
having thoughts of returning home. Betts insists on offering her compliments,
and I beg your lordship will belive me to be, my lord, your lordships most
obideant humble servant, Eliz. Duffus.
Skelbo, 2d Apral 1747.
270
FAMILY AND DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1747.
2G8. Hugh Goudon of Carroll, to William, sixteenth Earl ov Sutherland,
—with an account of the interment of Elizabeth, Countess of Suther-
land. 2d April 1747.
My Lord,— On Fry day last the Cuimtes of Sutherknds corps was interred at
Dornoch with the greatest dacency and good order that has been seen in this
country. The corps was carried in a hearse, attended by thirty gentlemen and
200 commons, and 40 men of the parish of Golspy as a guard. There was not
the least high word heard nor any man in disorder. Xoe body came but such
as were called, and every body called were at the burial! except Sir Robert Gordon,
Geddes, Ardoeh, elder, and Bighotise, who all made the want of health their excuse.
Lord DuCFus was princepall mourner, and next him Ulbster, who carried the feet.
Tims was performed the last duty to the lady endowed with all the qualifications
that could adorn her sex, and to the universal loss of every body that had the
honour of her acquaintance, and never enough to be regraLed by every individual
of this county. It is the duty of every one to submitt to the will of God, and
blessed be his name that there is hopcfull issue behind her. Lady Betty is at
Skelbo, but I find she would much rather choose to be here. Lady Strathnaver
has as 'yet sent noe directions about her. Next post 1 hope to be able to send a
full accouut of the expense of the funeralls, when your lordship will be able to
judge of the management and ceconomy that it was gone about in. Forse was
not at the burialls.
As the term is now at hand, the servants of the family want to know who are or
are not to be discharged, particularly Airs. Dott desires to know what she is to do
with her charge of my lady cloaths, etc., that she may deliver all to such person
as your lordship shall name, under inventary, and that you may send directions
of what is ordinary, and youl allow to be given her on this occasion. I send your
lordship a list of the servants' names in the family. I understand John Gray of
Rogart has shipt off his beef for Leith, and the cargo consigned to Mr. Hog. I
think your lordship should give directions to Mr. Hog anent the mony arising
from the sale of the beef. I have the honour to be, my lord, your lordships most
faithfull and most obedient servant, Hugh Gordon.
Dunrobin, 2 April 1747.
p.S _Rob Manderston has been usefull on the late occasion, and desires me
1747.]
JOIIX GRAY. 271
put your lordship in mind of procuring him Arthur Forbes's place if your lordship
ha* noo oLhei in view. Since writing the above 1 have received a letter from
Lady Strathnaver culling for Lady Betty, and she proposes to send a chaise north
for her, and that she should go in company with some of the ministers going to
the Assembly. I am to write her ladyship an answer to that. 1 believe it will
be twenty days or thereby before Lady Betty goes from this.
2G9. ^ T iLLL\M t Lord Strathnaver, to his father, William, sixteenth Earl
OF Sutheriand, — congratulations on his recovery. 30th May 1747.
Dear Paita,— I am glad to hear of your recovery from your late illness, and
shoud be very happy to hear of you from your self. My uncle and aunt are
well and offer you their compliments. 1 am, dear pappa, your affectionate and
dutiful son,
cy%udmcmyr
London, May 30th, 1747.
To the right honourable the Earl of Sutherland, Dunrobin. *£,**
270. John Gray to Robert Gray of Creich,— about the elections, and narrating
an engagement with a French privateer in the Dornoeh Firth. lGth
July 1747. Copy.
Dear cousine,— No doubt you '1 be expecting the news of our election. I went
with Sir John Gordon to Caithness, and went to the Orkneys. As Sir John
asked me to goe I seed no reason I should refuse it. It hes made up a friendship
'twixt him and me which is necessary at the time. Wee made nothing of our
jurny into Caithness, and as litle I have made in the Orkneys. I eould not con-
vince them that my interest with them was greater then the Earl of Mortouns.
After losing chance of the borrows, he then, as you know, proposed to sett up
Carroll, and as [he] found Carroll was not so agreeable he proposed Langwall, and so
matters stand. Cairufield, Sir John, and Kepernach wrot for the General, who is
expected Sunday night, who, I belive, will cary the elections ; but the Makays
FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1747
are within a man of them, as he made Pronsy by the Masters of Rcay's meens, who
was sent down to that purpose. Lord IJeay is to be this night at Skiboll in his
way to the election of peers,
I have not the least dubt but your cousinc, Sir John Gordon, will act once
more the old man, that so in the event the General and the Mackays will not
agree ; but he will joyne the M c Kays unless he be very heartly bought by
St. Game. Carroll, with whom I was this day, seems now for the General. So
much for elections.
Now I must give you ane account of a sea fight that hapencd this day and
yesterday in this furth, which for ane houre yesterday was very diverting. Anc
English 20 gun ship, Captain Farmer, comander, called the Experiment, ran in
here a small French privateer. The 20 gun ship could not follow further then
Achinchanter be east Dornoch, and the privateer came up 'twixt Dornoch and
Tainc. There was a Lieth merchant ship of 10 small guns with the 20 gun ship,
which they mailed with 40 marains and cam to the privatier. They fought for a
whol houre, and wee, who stood on the point of Dornoch, gave it in favours of the
Frenchman. However, he made the best of his way up till he cam to Spen-
goodall, where he now lys, and finding he could not get out he surendered upon
tearms, be . . .* 3 pounds and 50 men on boord . . . ] took M c Kenzie of
Inverness 15 days befor.
I need not write you on any of my afairs, as I am sure you have it as much at
heart as I have. Lady Duffus desairs me ask you if you had delivered her letter
to Mr. L'rquhart, as she had no word from him. Sir John Gordon is to examine
our accounts after the elections, and there is ane coming from Edinburgh
to that purpose. Cairnfield told me this day that [he is to] give up my lords
business, and hes intimated so to the earl so as to provide himself. "Who
shall be the man 1
I shall be glad if you was in the country as I counted. Let me know how
soon you come. Send me Pronsies accounts. — I am, dear consine, yours affec-
tionately, John Gray.
1G Jully 1747.
Robert Gray of Creich, "Writer j to be left at the "Weight CofSe House,
Edinburgh.
1 Stated to be "torn out in original."
1749.] WILLIAM, SIXTEEXTII EARL OF SUTUERLAXB. 273
271. Lady Elizabeth Sutherland to her father, William, sixteenth Earl
of Sutherland, — proposing to leave school in a year. 31st May 17 48.
Dear Tapa, — I receiv'd yours and am glade you are well, I hope yon '11
excuse me for not writing by the last opportunity that eame from Dunrobin,
being attending my schools when the servant went away. I am well pleased
Mrs. Buttlar is recover'd unto her health again. If it pleased yeur lordship I'll
go home next year and learn to be your lordship's housekeeper and Babie along
to learn with me. Dear papa, your most dutifull daughter,
U7£
M&^md
Edinburgh, May 31st, 1743.
To the right honourable the Earl of Sutherland at Dunrobin.
272. William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, to General James
Sinclair,— about his affairs at Court. [ISth May 1749.]
Thursday Night.
Dm Sir,— I was not in good health when I waited on you this morning, and
was wery much surprisd of what you told me, as I have no great hopes of
getting justice since his Majestie and ministry are displeas'd at me, tho I was'
assurd otherwise. I belive it wil be uneeessary to draw out any memorial to
his Majesty or his ministry.
I designe to goe to TuubriJge next month, for Scotland I wil not return to on
any account. I hope next winter to lay my affaire before the Parliament to
satisfie the world of my behaviour for his Majesties service, tho perhaps to the
ruin of my family, and then shal goe to forene parts, where I hope to be better
used. I am, sir, your affeetionat nephew, SUTHERLAND.
P.S. — I beg youl return my papers per bearer.
To the honourable General James St. Claire.
2 li
274 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1750.
273. Katharine, Lady Stratiinaver, to William, sixteenth Earl of
Sutherland, — wishing him to come and stay afc home.
January 25th, 1750.
My DEARST Son, — I had yours letter and am cxtremly sory to find you are so
averee from living at home. I can find no tamptation you have to continue in a
place where you are so much neglected, for the ministry seem to think you are of
small consiquence by giving the preference to thf 1 Earl of Marchniont. I am per-
swaded its in your own power to make Dumoben soe as agreeable as any place ;
a man of your rank need not want the best of eompnie, and the management of
your affairs would be an amusement full as entcrtining as any you at present
enjoy. As to your proposal of giveing up the management of your affairs to Lord
Kilkerran and me by takeing your self to the annuity your grandfather had is what
I can by no meaus approve of, for J am affraid that your estate can do no more
then pay the intvest of your debts and the ministers stipens and publick burdens
that effect without affording a sinking fund for the payment of your debts, far liss
bo considerable an localitiy to your self ; can you think that your creditors who have
a mind to adiudg your estate directly you may prevent all this. The best seckhem
you can think of is to com home and live upon your pension, and that of the
whole of your estate be fathfully applyed for the payment of my annuity and
others due me, and the other debts you are due your credeters, and to come horn.
This is thoonly way to expeck favour from, dearst son, your loving and affectionat
mother till dath. K. S.
Your daughter maks offer of her duty to you. Lady Hcllen Colquhoun is
brought to bed of a boy. His nam is called affter you. Wlbstcr and Lady Janet
makes offer of thir compliments to you and all of us to Lordie. Your answer
I expeck sone, that I may know when I shall expeck you heir. Thir was a talk
in this plas you was disapointcd of a mariage you had in veow. I want to know
this or any expecktation you have. Adoue.
To the right honourable the Earl of Sutherland at his house at Chelsea,
London.
1750.]
KATHARINE, LADY STRATIIXAVER. 275
2*74. William, sixtfenth Earl of Sutherland, to his uncle, the Honourable
General James St-. Clair, anent his visit to Bath.
Bath, February 25th, 1750.
Peak Sir, — As I thought you would be anxious to know how I ariv'd at Bath, I
came here without any accident, and to-morow I take phisik to prepare me for the
watters, and am resolvd to continue a raoderat diet til my stoniak is restord. I
beg you '11 offer my compliments to your lady and Sir Haiy Ereskin, and am, Sir,
your afectionat nephew and most humble servant,
To the honourable General James St. Claire at his house in Pal Male, London.
OTri
Katharine, Lady Strathxayer, to William, sixteenth Earl of
Sutherland, — advising him not to be rash in choosing a second wife.
circa 1750.
My dearst Son,— I just now reeeved yours from Richmond, May 1 dat, but
have no account from you of the i pacckets that I sind you of en asignation
you had ordered to be writ by Carnfilld, your writer, and to be sint up to you in
order to be singed and sind doun befor the seshion sitt, which, if delaiyed, will be
a grat lose. I am soriy that my letter is not as you take so well, but I most
alhviyes tell my concerns especheliy you to whom I have such a fondness of
bt-youd any of my children. I am sory if my famlie do not obiye my eomands.
I have never sine that gentelman, and I do not go offen abroad, and as to your
writing to me so short, as yow expeek my favor I think you ought to tack my
advise, and not to be so resolat as you wil stand by any. against all mortals. You
think every person that dos not writ or saiy as you inelain is your ill wishers ;
I can have no other veow but for your goud and family. As to my coming up to
sie you I think yow are younger to com doun, for to have a famlie at London and
the north wil not dow, and as I give you kind offers to staiy at the Abbay, which
27G FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1750.
I do not know how long, as if your gift be taken from you and given to en other,
I have losed all my laying out in repears of wiuduus and others, but that is but
the list of the losses of what you wil meit with, but defining piple may sustjest
twintiay things for thir oun ends, but I can have no other thing in my veow but
your advantadge. Let the asignation of the Skelbo affair be sint doun signed.
I am soriy your hous att Richmond that you have taken is so neir Loudon, for
i hat wil bring to many eidel compnie out to you. What shuld a single nobleman
like you but to live soberliy, and no crouds of cornpnie com out to them. I am
glad to heir of your reoslntion of matrimony which yow saiy your son and daughter
yow are maried to. They are both promising, and for Lady Littie I think she
is a very fine child, and males her humble duty to you to be lembered. I sind
ten pound to the north to bring her up, and a man, horses, and chess, who stands
me six pound ten shilings, and now 1 have taken of new morning again for her,
and I desin Mr. Lamot to com in to her for dancing, and Mr. Granger for
writing and a French master, and that may dow very well for sum little time.
The abbay is a fine eir, and she hath agried very v ell with the jnrnie, and she is a
very tracktable weis child. Now, my dear son, as you wod gane my favor do not
be rach in your choyes of a seakond lady. Thir is many billis in Eiglained, and
you are very rash ; that is a stat of life that neids a grat dell of deliberation and
consideration, and for a rach think of that wod make you very unhappaiy, and for
God seake do not go on in any thing without my advise, otherways you neid not
cxpeck my countnance. So you make me much concerned for feir. We have 6ne
ladys in Scotland, and goud t'orton to, but advise in a mater of that momont, but
as you was resolved not to do any thing without my concurance and advise, so
notwith standing this is brock and enimies going to you for thir oun desins. I
writ tojou that I wod have your brothers in law to get qualifiecations which is
but resonablc, thow your adviser wod saiy to the contrarie, which I winder how
any can have the confidence to dow, for thir was non oposed your election mor
at last election then them now in favour. Now, all I can say is the Lord dreck
you in all your ways, and that you wod not shuw mine to you to strangers, which
is very unbecoming a son to dow, and afTter reiding to burn. — I am, dear son,
your loving and affectionat mother. Adue.
This gos with your servent, "Wiliarn Camble. For your providing Anderson,
I wish you wod dow for them that deserves of your oun relations.
1750.] WILLIAM, SIXTEENTH EARL OF SUTHERLAND.
Dear son; this bank not as a tocken from me, and I shal mind you. For God
swik lack cair of your health, and bclive no misrepresantions ; for nothing I want
inor then your prosperity, and these that says otherwise is for your roun, which
] pray God shall nearer get thir desin. Tlas let nie know if you have receved
this bank not. I have given out a grat dell of money for Lady Ilittie. Plase
to sing and sind doun the asignation to me of Skelbo that the proces may not be
delaiyed the snmer seeshiou, I will long to heir from you.
27C. WlLLTAM, SIXTEENTH EARL OF SUTHERLAND, to the REV. DR. TlIACKERAY, —
withdrawing his son, Lord Strathnaver, from his school 18th June 1750.
S IPl) — My son, Lord Strathnaver, acknowledges the great care and concern you
have taken in his education during the time he was at your school, for which
I thank you, and assure you that if it had not been necessary to teach him (as
soon as possible) some academical exercises not instructed by you, his studys
should continue under your tuition. I therefor desire you to discharge him from
your school and committ him to the charge of Lieutenant General St. Clair. — I
am, Sir, your obliged humble servant, Sutherland.
Chelsea, June ISth, 1750.
To the Reverend Doctor -Thackeray, at Harrow on the Hill.
277. William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, to his mother, Katherine,
Lady Strathnaver, — his illness.
Montauban, November 26th, 1750.
Dear Madam, — I am sory to tel you you that that my state of heath it has
been been my study to obliddge, aud I ow and I hope wil doe the same for all.
My head turrns round mee. Your ladyships wil not be eonfusd at this this, and
if I had got not the least reason at that time to, discouragement would keep keep
me under. — I am, hououred dear, your ladyship's most dutiful and obedient
son, Sutherland.
To the right honourable the Lady Strathnaver, at Edinburght, by London.
278 FAMILY JXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1750.
278. Katharine Lady Stratiinayer, to General St. Clair, — acknowledging
his kindness to her grandson. 18th December 1750.
g inj — J return yon my hearty thanks for your letter of condolance for the dath
of my dearst son, the Earl of Sutherland, which gives me unexpressable grief,
tho it is my duty to submit in all cases to the divine will. I dare say his dath
will give all his frinds a concern. I most also return my thanks for the care
you have hitherto taken of my Lord Stratlmaver, your nephew. I hop he will
live to shue his gratitude to so goud a freend and near a relation, and have a
sciice of his obligations to you. It is a grate mark of your goodness to have sint
for my grandson for his decent mournings on such a milancholly occasion. But
what <nves me the gratest satisfaction at this time, your goodness and kindness
about obtaining to my dear grandson the pension his fathar had for the sous
edeucation, in which 1 hoop by your own interest you will have success, and all
circumstances consMeied, especiually my sons grat loses and disapointment, is
what 1 have reason by your means to expect. The grat concern now is how to
manage matters best for my lords affairs, which iudead a[re] in disorder. I
understand my son has made no nomination of tutors aud curators to his
children, and thir affairs will need looking affter. You are a goud frend and
capable to serve them. Engaginents of that sort are very unfite for me. I wod
think my grandson happie if so good a relation, I may say parent, wod take my
grandson under your protackhion.
I am now turned very tender and is very unfite for busnes, but thir is non
fitter then you. I am sory pour Bady Sutherland is not provid in a porshion.
Ther is no dubt I shuld think the contrack of mariag will, as no dubt you know.
The furneter that was in the hous at Chelsiey shuld be looked affter, and the
famlie plat that is in Mr. Drumonds, bankier, as Captain Gordon writs. I hop
you will excuse this confused letter from, Sir, your much oblidged bumble
servant, K. Stratiinayer.
Desember 18, 1750.
To the right honorable General Sinclair, at his house in Pall Mall, London.
1750.] KATUARIXE, LADY STRATHS AVER. 270
279. Katherine, Lady Stratknaver, to General St. Clair,— anent apply-
ing for a new grant of the Earl of Sutherland's lodging in the Abbey.
27th December 1750.
Sir,— As it will be necessary to apply for a new grant of this lodgeing in favours
of my grandson the Earl of Sutherland, I therefor thought proper to give you this
hint lea?t others might be makeing application for a grant of itt, and I expack you
will pleas to let me know in time as I may provid my self in a hous. Lady Bitty
Sutherland maks offer of her duty to you and your lady, and my blising to my
grandson. — I am, with all respeek, sir, your much oblidged humble servant,
K. Stratiinaver.
Desember 27th, 1750.
To the ri^ht honourable Giuerall St. Clair att his hous att Till Mill, London.
280. Katherine, Lady Stratiinaver, to [General St. Clair],— stating that
she will not undertake the management of the affairs of her grandson,
the Earl of Sutherland.
Abbay, Desember 29th, 1750.
S IR) I Tvrot you two letters the one wherein you acquanted me with the dis-
agriable news of my son's death, which I hop both mine to you is come safe to
your hands. As you know, I had a factory and commission from my son for
managing his estate, which now falls by his death. I presume you and the other
friends of my grandson will take care that he choose curitors diractly, and thereby
enable him to appoint proper persons to manage his affairs, as I am determined
not to act any further in the management of his affairs, as I find it absolatly
impossible for me to do it; att the, same time shall att all times be reidy to give
my adviee in his affairs when askt, and I am, sir, your most humble servant,
K. Stratiinaver.
My compliments to your lady and blising to the Earl of Sutherland. Lady
Bitty maks offer of her duty to you and lady. Sir, my other letter to yon was
about a gift for this lodging in the Abbay where I stay, that I may be aquanted
in time to provid myself a hous.
280 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1751.
281. Sir James Colqitiiocx of Luss, Baronet, to his mother-iudaw, Katherine,
Lady Stiiathxaver, — intimating Ins assumption of the title of a baronet.
Rosedoe, 2d Aprilc 1751.
Dear Madait, — I have been dailey expecting Lachlan Grant since I wrote your
ladyship, and what it is that detains him I cant find out, for by his last letter to
me he wrote that I need not write him more as he was to set out in a few days
for Rosedoe. I therefore beg upon receipt of this that your ladyship may be so
good as send your servant to enquier at his sister whats become of him, or, if he
is still in town, when he proposes being here. Your ladyship shall be infeft in
the lands that I have purchased from Mr. Buchanan for your security, and regu-
larly payed your anual rent untill I can raise money of my oun in order to repay
your ladyship again, and as the term is now fast approaching I wish Lachlan
would make haste out in order to have all directly done both to your ladyships
satisfaction and mine. In case he is not resolved to come out I shall employ
another person, bnt would rather have him as I have some other matters to settle
particularly with the Duke of Montrose's mannadgers, for I want to take the
benefit of the late Act of Parliament, whereby ward holding is changed into a
yearly few duty, and now is the time for ending this affair. I am vastly impor-
tuned by my west eon n trey friends and namesakes not to allow the title of a
barronet to goc out of the family, and as I am strongly advised and sollicite to
take upon me the honours in order to prevent others from doeing it in prejudice
of whoever shall succeed me in this family, I have therefore agreed to doe it ; so
that from henceforward your ladyship will be pleased to direct for me accordingly.
For my oun share I dont give a farthing for it. But in order to oblige my name
and have justice done those who shall succeed me I have done it. I oun it was
pritty bold in my friend, George Colquhoun, to assume either titles or armes of
this family when any of my children were alive. But possibly a little time will
make him see his error, and in consequence now that he has got preferment and a
wife, drop it. For my oun part since I have once agreed to take the honours of
the family ( as indeed I believe I should have done before now) I shall never
drop them again in my time, let my son doe as he pleases. But, in short, the
whole of my friends in this country insisted strenonsly with me and argued that
in case I refused doeing it my memory would be odious. My wife is to write
your ladyship by nixt post. Shee desires her most humble duty to your ladyship,
17 57.] MXS. SIXCLAIR OF VLBSTER. 2S1
and both of us joyne in kind compliments to Lady Betty Sutherland. Pray when
may wee expect the happiness of your ladyship and Lady Betty at Rosedoe,
which, now that the season has turnd more favourable, begius to look delightful!,
especially the noble perr.mid of J>»loinoud. The children are all well and thriv-
ing I am. with the utmost respect, dear madam, your ladyships most affectionate
and faithful son while J A. Colquhoun.
PS.— I shall never make any dispute with my brother. Let him use his
honours and I shall doc the same, which unquestionably is my right and that of
the family. I doubt not but some people will find fault with me upon this head.
But I disregard all or every thing that can be said or advanced upon the matter
in comparison with peace and quiet.
28 2. Mrs. Sinclair of Ulbstcr to her mother, Katherine, Lady Stratil-
XAVER, — with congratulations upon the purchase of Assyut. 3d July 17o7.
Dear Madam,— Ulbster and I we congratulate your ladyship on the purchase
of the Assynt estate. Be assured that the purchase is a good one. The
Mackenzies offered Lord Seaforth the loan of £14,000 sterling to make that
purchase for himself. But as he had not much ambition, he declined accepting so
good an offer. Yon have now a whole country to your self, a command of men,
that may make you of consequence to the government, and a valuation that will
intitle you to make seven votes ; and in the view of profit, a fine salmon fishing,
. the best cattle and butter iu the north of Scotland. My eiyes still continue sore,
and the chaise is yoked for my making a jaunt to Brawl, which obliges me to
conclude with the offer of Ulbsters humble duty and mine to your ladyship. Our
kindest compliments to Lord Sutherland; Lady Betty, and Miss Colquoon, in
which the children join, and I am in haste, dear madam, your most affectionate
obedient daughter, . Janet Sinclair.
Thurso Castle, 3 July 1757.
Mr. and Mrs. Sinclair of Friswyck, and Miss Cirstie Dalrymple, were with me
for three nights. We want to know the reasons that Lady Betty's marriage is
blown up.
To the right honourable the Lady Strathnavar, Edinburgh.
FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1760.
233. Helen Sutherland, Lady Colquhoun of Luss, to her mother,
Katherine, Lady Strathn aver, complaining about her sister.
Kossdoe Hoase, February 25th, 1760.
My dearest Madam,— -Sir James arrived here a Saturday last, and is not a bit
the worse of his journey tho he got very bad waether. He delivered me your
ladyships letter, I cant misse being a little surprised at your ladyships belive-
ing aney thing that my sister could take amiss in the letter I wrote to her. You
know both her temper and inveious despositions, and I had got maney unjouste
rubies fur thes year past, of the great and riteh presents that you was all ways
sending and gaveing me ever since I was a wife. She never could condecend on
perticular presents, being all a ficktion which your ladyship most know as well as
me. It is most erouall when I don't gett the vealow of a shillen seut at aney
tyme to me or mine. It is very hard to put up both with the skeath and the
skorin ; and as for inveying Ketty, she has no reason, as you have doon and daly
dous very handsom things by them, tho thay are but children in respect of
Ketty, and has not been in your family nor your nam daughter. I had not a
heart that could bear aney of her unjoust abradaines for which I wrote her a
letter with some spirite to stop her folie, for I was wore out with vexation and
unisenass. God forgive her, she has made me some years older lick, as I can't
bear to be in a wicked way with aney body, fare lass with my sister. Oh,
madam, it is erouall that all the world belives I get the greatest of presents from
yon, and at the same time your ladyship not giveing me the vealow of a ribbon or a
pair of gloves. As for what Kettey gets all the twon of Edinburgh hears of it and
sees it, and what her papa and I gave her are taken in to the bargan. So if I
am not well yoused I know my self had I been the undutyfull daughter I could
not have been wors yoused at all hands. I thank God I have a kind affectionate
husband, and a family of siven as fine children, I thank God, as I could wish.
God spair them for an honour and comfort to uss. Poor things, it is hard that
they all, poor dears, most come to the world with inviey upon my account, and I
to meet with the eoutruarey youasage. I should not have sade on word on this
subject for as much as I have sufFred, if your ladyship had not wrote me of the
affair. I knew my sister is pationate, but dous she think I am to miend her
pation, or is she to pretend to lay doun roules to me that is elder then her, and
1761. ] MARY MAXWELL, COUXTESS OF SUTIIERLAXD. 233
all ways more in the world. I most say she has a pritty good oppinion of her self.
Nothin™ - I had oucc more at heart then being at Edinburgh, but it was much
better I did not go, for sisters to scould on another would have exposed uss both.
So I see we are better at a dcstance, if that was iutended for me, and I most tall
your ladyship that descurigements or slights my spirite cant bear, so I wish I may
never meet with them. I know it would brar-k my heartt, and I know my husband
and children would look upon it as the greatest loss thay could meet with. This is
a terable time at Greenoeke. Thay are atTrade the French may make them a visite,
however, the troops from Edinburgh and Glasgow was to be there a Saturday. I
flater myself theyll gave a good accound of them, or at leest prevent there land-
in**. God halp uss if thay land. Xo doubt we will get a visite, and what may
come of uss I cant say, for no doubt the French will look upon uss as grate
enimeys aud perhaps take all we are poss[ess]ed of. But God is a ritch provedir,
which my only halp and dependancc uss upon. I have luckley got six moor foull,
which I have sent by the carrier of this letter. Oh make me happy with the
prospeck of seeing your ladyship here in summer. I hope we shall have peace
and pleantey in our land. Sir James took in a fine young mcar to Glasgow to
sell and laft her in James Grahams stable. She was with at lest 12 geuincs, and
some folkes that say her thought her with, much more, and she dyed last week. I
wish that may be our only loss, for our sheses horses are all had, and one that Sir
James boght, a hois to halp to bring him home with his one sick ones. All eare
shall be taken of them, and no more can be doon. Sir James and the children
offers you there humble duty, and, I am, my dearest madam, your most duty-
■ full and most affeetionate daughter, Helen Colquhoun.
p.S. — Our love to Ketty and compliments to all friends. Adiew, dear madam.
234. Mary Maxwell, Countess of Sutherland, to. Martha, Countess of
Elgin and Kincardine, — congratulating her on the birth of her
daughter, Lady Janet, aud referring to her own experience since her
marriage.
Duurobin, Friday, July 17 th, 1761.
My dear Lady Elgin, — I delay'd writing to congratulate you on the addition
to your family and your own happy recovery till I got here, as I had no great
2*i
FA MIL Y A XV DOMESTIC LETTERS. [ 1 ~ C 1 .
conveniences for writing on the road, and desired rny sister to inform you we
were all well, which 1 ikitter'd myself would not be indifferent to you. We got
here safely on Wednesday night, after a very tedious but agreeable journey. We
were three nights at the Duke of Athole's, and as long at Lord Moray's, which
detained us so long. The whole family of the latter came here with us, which,
with the addition of some of the gentlemen of this country, made a great party
and keeps a full house. All this country and this place in particular I like much
better than expectation. The roads are very good, and the length of way and
the ferries, which are the only disagreeable circumstances, time, patience, and
goodwill will get over. Custom, I hope, will make them more agreeable to me,
as that alone can make parting with my friends easier. I need not tell you, my
dear Lady Elgin, that it made me happy to hear by AVilma, that you and your
young lady are doing so well. There are few I am so much interested for from
many ties.
From letters I found when I arrived here I find that our expectations with
regard to some of our friends are realty fulfill'd. After all I am satisfied that I
have the greatest reason to be pleas'd and happy, but at the same time my
anxiety for her happiness, my sympathy for her present situation, join d with my
being quite unacquainted with one that I have, shall have so much connection
with, gives me a good deal of disquiet at present. I shall wait with patience for
the time when it will be proper for your ladyship to write me. To you I trust
for a great deal of satisfaction. At present so great a variety of ideas crowd
upon me relating to myself and others, that I am afraid I am unable to perform
■ my part tolerably in so new a situation as this still is to me. I have stole so
much time as to write a long letter to my sister, which has left me less time than
I could wish to tell you about this place, etc. To her I refer you for my opinion
of it, and must now offer my lord's kind compliments and mine to Lord Elgin
and your ladyship, with our best wishes for everything that is good and agreeable
to attend you ; and I am, my dear Lady Elgin, yours most affectionately,
^^^&£//z67/^?y
irCl.] JEAN WEDDERRURX, LADY ERSK2XE. 2So
THIRTEEN LETTERS from Jean YTeddereurn, wife of Sir Harry Erskine, to
Mary, Countess of Sutherland.
285. (1) Urging her and Lord Sutherland to be present at the king's
marriage. 17th July 17G1.
YOUR last letter, my dear Lady Sutherland, was so unmerited on my part that I
have no words to express my gratitude; but acts of goodness are so common to
you that you don't even expect thanks from those you confer them on.
The prospect I have of the continuance of your friendship is, I do assure you,
a most comfortable idea to me, for you must be sensible that I have judgement
enough to distinguish you from most of my acquaintance, and the more 1 study
and know you the more my esteem encreases. The gratitude of my heart makes
me fill my letter with what I feel for you at a time when I should be entirely
occupied with this great event of his Majesty's marriage, which gives such general
satisfaction ; and as it is an event in which you peeresses are more particularly
interested, I must beg leave to take the liberty of offering you the substance of a
conversation, or rather conversations of Sir Harry and I with regard to your being
here. Nobody felt more sensibly than I that you would not be here this winter.
But since the coronation is fixed I have again given way to hope. Sir Harry, T
believe, writes to Lord Sutherland by this post, and we both agree in thinking
(that independant of the pleasure which all ladies have in shows) my lord and
your ladyship should grace this country with your presence. It is generally
believed that few of the nobility will be absent on this occasion, and I should be
sorry if one whose rank is so conspicuous should fail in any attention to a
sovreign who is so justly beloved by all his subjects. The death of the prin-
cess's mother will delay her coming over for a week or fortnight longer than the
time first mention'd, therefore you can be here before the wedding. I won't press
this subject too far, as your own good sense will best tell you what should be
done; besides I have jubt heard that you would not be fond of walking tho' you
was here. I have but one word more to add, which is, if you have any inten-
tion to come, to beg you would send me any commissions by the first post which
you have to give about eloaths or coronation robes. The ermine will scarce be
got ; every mortal is making up fine eloaths for the wedding, and the silks are
already risen considerably in their price ; I still remain attached to blue, and
have accordingly bought a blue and silver.
286 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. £1761.
.We took a house here for the summer, and I was in hopes of being a little
retired for the summer, hut I have found very little of either solitude or tran-
quility, as we go to town above thrice a week. The situation is delightfully and
to a romantick mind the water and the gardens would have infinite charms. But
alas ! your age and mine for romancing is now at an end. No romance is ever
carried further thau marriage. It has not at least been a tragical conclusion
to our history, and I hope it never shall be interspersed with melancholy events.
An insipid sameness is far preferable to such a variety. My best compliments
attend Lord Sutherland, Mr. Wemyss, and Lady Betty. For you, my dear Lady
Sutherland, you may always depend upon the best wishes and sincere affection of
your J- Erskine.
Kew Green, July 17th, 1761.
286. (2) The intended visit of Lord and Lady Sutherland to Loudon.
5th August 1761.
I WISH, my dear Lady Sutherland, it was as much in my power as it is in my
inclination to be of use to you upon your coming here. However, I shall impart
to you such little pieces of knowledge as I have acquired. Sir Harry has been
inquiring for a hou^e for you, and I heartily wish it may not be at any distance
from ours. No lodging-house ever furnishes plate, china, or Hnnen. The former
articles you will get best here, but I would by all means advise you to send your
liunen from Scotland, as you would pay a great deal of money for what is very bad
of the kind here. I have not yet received your orders concerning your dress, but
when I do you may depend upon my executing them to the best of my skill.
The prospect of seeing you in town gives me infinite pleasure, and it will add
greatly to my. present happiness. I could "have wished you had been here sooner
than you propose, as I really think it Would have been very proper for my lord and
you to have paid your compliments immediately upon the marriage. But there is
no making Dunrobbin nearer London than it is. The world says it should con-
gratulate you on Miss Maxwells marriage. I promise you to do it when you
come here, if you say it should be done. At present the post allows me no time
to add one word more than that I ever am, your affectionate J. E.
London, August 5th, 1761.
17G2.] JEAX WEDDERBUfiX, LADY ERSKIXE.
287. (3) Giving the news of London.
Cavendish Square, May Gth, 1762.
JIa Chere et belle Coutesse, — It is unnecessary to assure you that I have felt
and regretted your absence like a fond mother pining after a favourite child, aud I
almost wish, for my own ease, that I was grown the fine lady you threatned me with
who would rejoice in the absence of a rival who robbed her of the unmeaning
admiration of the world; but I 'm sensible my heart is not made of such materials,
and therefore I must ever regret the absence of one who shares my confidence
and is worthy of my esteem. Perhaps you are accusing me in your mind for
being so long of inquiring after you, and wondring that I was not more curious to
know how you liked Edinburgh, and if the squares, etc., appeared as large as
usual. But, alas ! my dear, we have all been d}ing here. The plague rages in
this city. It has not been mortal, but few have escaped it. I am still an invalid,
and only ventured out this morning to take the air. Mrs. St. Clair has been
extremely ill, but is now out of danger. Lady Charlotte Johnstone has paid her
debt to nature, aud thy' she did not seem to be much favour'd by the opinion of
the world when alive, yet now she is regretted and greatly praised. Those who
knew her intimately say she possess'd a thousand amiable qualities which were
totally eclipsed by her immoderate love of the world. The Duke of Portland's
death was sudden but not surprising, as he has been very infirm for many years.
So much for your dead friends, and now to return to the living. On Tuesday
last these miracles of love and constancy, viz. Collonell Johnstone and Lady
Cecilia West, were united in wedlocks holy bands. A tragedy groan is all I say
upon that subject. By this time your ladyship grows impatient at my neglect or
spitefulness in not delivering the thousand compliments and fine speeches I was
charged with the first time I had occasion to write to Lady -Sutherland. "Why
truly mam, I was only desired with this proviso, ' When you have nothing else to
say,' etc., and, having a great deal more to say at present than I have time for,
they must be delayed till another opportunity. My flirtations went on apace, but
my late confinement came very nial a propos. Sir Harry desires to be remembred
in the kindest manner. If my lord forgets me, he is most ungratefull to his and
your affectionate friend, J. Erskine.
288 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1762
288. (4) Relating news about herself.
YOCR letter, my dear countess, gave rue the vapours. I am indeed greatly-
disappointed at your not coming to town, as I must be a sufferer by it. However,
I cannot regret the cause nor condemn the measure, only I must Leg of you to
contrive matters better another time. Your absence is a vast loss to me this
vrinter, but I intend to behave very handsomely towards you by making you
acquainted with all my life and conversation. I have always fouud that you had
sense enough to relish nonsense, and not to take things for more than they are
mean'tj or when a married woman talks of her flirtations you don't look upon
her as one who follows wicked courses. But I desire you not to give my private
anecdotes up into the hands of censorious people. The town is very empty. If
I had been vain I would have told you it was very full, because I mean to inform
you that I am very fashionable. You cannot imagiue what good scenes you have
already lost. I think I could once or twice have made you laugh more than you
would have liked in your preseut condition. I am sorry that the materials were
too thin a matter to bear a Scotch journey, otherwise I would have tried how a
fine speech or speeches bears to be repeated. I hope if at any time you should
hear any hints thrown out against my conduct you will be pleased to give me
warning, as I have a great deal upon bauds, and I flatter myself the fine ladies
will all abuse me, for I have been able twice to draw, nay, to fix, the attention of
the most fashionable man in town. I won't tell you who he is till I have flirted
a little more with him. I dont like to have too much upon hand at a time, there-
fore I have thought it expidient to cut short a noble lord. I am sure I should
have had your approbation. You will perfectly understand what I say, but if by
chance your husband reads it he will be vastly puzzled, for the men are always more
stupid than the women. Mature has given them more advantages in point of
situation than [us], but has in reveuge allowed us more readiness of apprehension.
2S9. (5) Jaunting in the country, and general news.
London, June 2 2d.
I HOPE you don't greatly condemn me for being so long of enquiring after you.
But, my dear countess, it is impossible to write to you half so often as I think of
you, and I have been jaunting about enjoying the country and the fine weather. I
17 G'l] JEAX WEDDEEBURX, LADY EIISKIXE. 289
have seen a number of fine places and magnificent houses, anil am return'd to
Cavendish Square without the least regret for not being mistress of one of these
delightful seats. If the post was not just going away I would make many wise
reflections upuu the vanity and luxury of the world which would tend to show you
that whilst I was pleasing the eye I improved the mind. The ball on the birth-
day was very thin and very stupid. I danced with Lord Garlies. I must confine
myself to an abstract of all tliats doing. I have, according to your prophecy,
struck up an intimacy with Lady Charlotte Tufton. We are very much together.
There is a report in the world that the Countess of Northumberland is pregnant.
Lady Francis Oreville is to be married this week to Sir Harry Harpur. They
talk of Lady Louisa to Lord Dungarvon, sou to the Earl of Corke. I report all
these report[s] always in the hopes of seeing yon here that you may not be
ignorant of names and people and their diflerant connections. I send my love
to Lord Sutherland by the hands of his wife. Sir Harry is always yours, and
so is your very affectionate J. E.
200. (0) Excusing herself for delaying to write to the Countess.
London, July 13th, 17G2.
I can say very little in vindication of my unworthy conduct towards my dear
Lady Sutherland, for my late silence most certainly does not proceed from too
great a hurry of company, as there is scarce a single acquaintance remaining in
this great city. But my excuse is of such a nature that it is impossible for any
body in your part of the world to form an idea of it. Can those who live in a
climate where the sun has not yet melted the winter snows form any idea of the
immense heats we have had here — heats which has reduced me to a state of
stupidity bej~ond what I can describe ? Perhaps you think any attempt towards
such a description althegether unnecessary, as this epistle proves my assertion
beyond contradiction. Cloathed with dulness, may I presume (that you who are
at present surrounded with the gay and social companions of the north) will deign
to accept of my enquiries. I do most earnestly wish to know how you are, where
you are, and what you are doing. I flatter'd myself at parting that our inter-
course of letters would have been a little more frequent. Eut I cannot help observ-
ing with regret your exact strictness in keeping to letter for letter. However, I
shall always hope that our friendship does not depend entirely upon letters, and
200 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1702.
that neither time nor distance Trill abate it. If you knew how often you are the
subject of conversation between Sir Harry" and I yon would at least be a little
gratefull. "We sometimes take the liberty to stripe you of your titles and call
you by the name of Molly.
I have no adventures t:> inform you of, this place is so empty at present that
one would scarce believe it was the seat of a court. Lady Mary Douglas has had
a great legacy left hc-r lately, I cannot exactly say to what value ; but it U
generally believed to be about five hundred a year, and ten thousand pound of
money. The Moray family left this ou Saturday. Sir Harry begs to be remeni-
bred, and I beg leave to assure Lord Sutherland that I retain all my love for
him, without abating in the least of the affection with which I am his lady
wifes sinceie friend, J. Ekskixe.
291. (7) Informing the Countess of Lord Garlie3* intended marriage.
24th July 1762.
You are a good soul and I must love yon, and thank you for your letter which I
received this post. 'When I consider the vast distance which separates us at
present it makes me quite melancholy. However, I must use the old cheat of
letters which eomes so near to conversation j but it is of the slow kind, like a
demure prude in a drawing room that drops a word in an hour. I banish all prudery
from my society, and think a good dash of the coquet the better thing of the two.
I am in the first place quite sober and in the next place very tired, and not one
grain of giddiness in me to-night. Therefore don't conclude me mad, for what
I 'm going to say, as you may rely on't as much as if you had read it this morning
in your Bible, and it appears as incomprehensible to my shallow understanding
as some chapters of the Revelations. Lord Garlics is to be married in about a
fortnight to Lady Charlotte Greville, third daughter to Lord Warwick. How he
got into the nursery still remains a secret. Some say the nursery maid took him
for a little master and carried him up stairs to dress the dolls. Others say that
he went to visit my lady with Collonel Clark, and that they contrived to send
him to see Miss get her lessou for her minuet, being a little bit of a dancing-master
himself. For my part I think it of no consequence to the publick how it came
about. But I shall tell you his own story which he affirmed to me last night —
that he has been in love with her more than two years. Oh love ! being little
1702.] JEAX WEDDERBURX, LADY ERSKIXE. 291
company and no amusement.' This serves for conversation ; and I died to tell
you of it, though I am but just come from Kew, aud the post hurrying round the
square. Adieu, my dear, and believe me ever yours, J. E.
Cavendish Square, July 21, 1 762.
292. (8) Declaring her affection for the Countess. 8th August 1762.
MlA CAEA, — Will you forgive me for being very foolish, but upon my word I
believe I 'm in love with you, for I ear no more resist the inclination I have to
write to you to-night than a lover can resist writing to his mistress, when he says
nothing but what he has said a hundred times, and that is exactly my case. I
have nothing more to say than that your a most excellent creature, that there
are very few such, and that I really do love you, and I hope I have your hus-
band's permission. Strange things have come to puss within this short time, —
diposing emperors, etc. Is it not a most surprising event 1 Let all husbands
learn for the future to treat their wives with proper respect. I 'm uot fond of
making my epistles in the stile of newspapers, unless it is a chronique scandaleuse,
and therefore I leave it to newspapers to assign causes for the liussian revolution
and foreign affairs whilst I return to domestick occurances. I have had no
interesting affairs of my own this summer, which, perhaps, makes me more con-
versant in other peoples, as } t ou shall judge by the sequel. There has been
nobody in town. I have no flirtations, nobody to make love to me. In short it
is very dull. Lord Charles Spencer is said to be enamoured of Miss Beauclerk;
and if I have any skill in these matters, Aliss Beauclerk is not less so with his
'lordship. It appears to be quite a mutual passion, a pair of candles that burn,
equally, or what you please to call it. Hang the post. If it was not for the
tinkle tinkle of its nasty bell I could make similes by the hour. But it makes
such a noise that I must return to a subject which no noise can put [out] of mind,
nor no stillness make fall asleep, and that is to assure my dear Lady Sutherland
that I' ever am, with the greatest sincerity, her affectionate J. E.
Cavendish Square, August 8th, 17G2.
N.B. — Sir Harry does not so much as send his compliments to you. [Another
hand, apparently that of Sir Harry, here adds : " I only declined writing a post-
script because the lady had not left me room. Pray are all you ladies of the
north to dethrone your husbands?"]
292 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTEIIS. [1762.
203. (9) The illness of General St. Clair, and a visit by Sir Harry Erskine
and her to him.
Dysart, September 2d, 1702.
I can't help figuring to myself how astonished you would be at hearing of our
arrival here. Our resolutions were sudden and speedily execute, and we had
the pleasure to find the General much better than we had any reason to expect,
lie has not had any violent attack since we came here, and if he eoutinues well,
Sir Harry proposes returning again in about ten days hence. I cannot pretend
to say that the same strain uf vivacity will ^.ow from my pen as usual, as we are by
no rueaus a pleasant set of companions. However, X have retired to my room to
indulge myself in a little bit of a laugh with my lord and you. I 'm quite
charmed with Mrs. St. Clairs behaviour at present, and if it was not for her I
should die of the spleen. Miss l'aterson is as meek as any old sinner, and so
civil ; her and I are mighty good friends. Eut if you was [to] take the essence
of the whole party 1 believe, pottatoe like, there would be no spirit to extract. I
shall be at Edinburgh next week, and as it is the race week, I intend to indulge
my curiosity at an assembly. "What would I give for to have you there ; I must
lay by my remarks in store for you. If I was to venture to say a word to any
body there I should certainly be assassinate. You can't imagine how strange
every place appears to me. I have not seen the face of any creature that I was
accustomed to see but Miss St. Clair and Mrs. Fall.
Sir Harry and I received each a letter from Dunrobbiu to-day, "We were
much obliged by them, and in case Sir Harry should not have time to write this
post, I take it upon me to thank Lord Sutherland both in his name and my own
for the friendly kind intention of his letter. 1 believe nothing iu the world eould
persuade Sir Harry to mention so delicate a subject as that of the settlements to
the General ; and I 'ni much persuaded any alteratious he makes will be of no
consequence to us, especially as his first settlement was not owing to any prejudice to
Sir Harry but from opinion. Sir Harry's conduct ever was and ever will be affec-
tionate and attentive to the General, and our family must provide for themselves,
and every thing must take its course in this life. Many thanks for your inquiries
after James ; he is very well. All the marriages you saw in the newspapers
were true except Lord Iluutingtons. Lady Harriet Eentiueks is likely, but I don't
imagine it is yet agreed on. Adieu, my very dear eomtesse, yours, J. E.
1765.] JEAX WEDDEnBURX, LADY EESKIXE. 293
294. (10) About her own bereavement. 2-ith September 17C5.
IN every situation of life it must be pleasing to me to be remembred by my
dear Lady Sutherland. IUit I should have been very unwilling to have broke
in upon your happiness for a moment by calling to your mind a very miserable
object, if I had not been induced (by your kind letter to Nannie) to tell you that
I am in every respect better than could have been expected. If it was con-
sistent with the principles of a Christian, I should be tempted to say better than
1 wished. 1 bless God that under all my trials I have preserved my reason, and
1 hope to be able to have a proper resignation to the will of God. I am per-
fectly persuaded that I w;is very deserving of the chastisements that Heaven has
thought proper to inflict, for I was very much attached to life and to the things
of this world, but it is difficult, my dear Lady Sutherland, to be otherwise, and
be so entirely happy as my life was. You saw more of my domestic happiness
than anybody did, and will more easily conceive my present distress. I do
assure you I take every proper and possible means to support my spirits from
sinking, being perfectly sensible that I have a double duty to do to my infants,
particularly to the poor unhappy girl, who I may justly say has been born to
misfortunes. I need not tell you how much I long to hear from you. I often
think of you, and always wish that the years which has been taken from my
happiness may be added to yours by a long continuance of your present state.
Assure Lord: Sutherland of my regard for him, and believe me, affectionately
yours, J. ERSKIXE.
London, September 24th, 1765.
295. (II) Her condition consequent upon the death of her husband,
Sir Harry Erskine.
London, November 1st, 17 Go.
I have been longer of writing to you, my dear Lady Sutherland, than I
intended ; not from any illness, but from an unwillingness of distressing you, as
I cannot with truth say that I am as yet in the least reconciled to my unhappy
situation, tho* my outward appearance is very tranquil. I should sometimes be
apt to think that I am void of all feeling, from having been able to bear the
294
FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS.
[1765.
misfortunes that have been laid on me, if my unhappiness did not teach me
the contrary. My mind for a little time was totally unactive ; it is now become
restless, and I tire of every place, and wish to change the scene, but I have never
attempted to do it. Forgive me for oppressing you. It was not the intention
of my letter, for it was meant solely for your use. AVhen for a moment I can
draw my thoughts from myself they naturally turn to you, for two reasons,
because I really am attached, and because I think you the only person who had
as large a share of domestic happiness as I had. I wish anxiously for a longer
continuance of it to you, and that leads me ofteu to think that as Lord Suther-
land is at a time of life when the constitution may easily be made better, I
cannot help feeling a desire to entreat you not to let any motive in the world
make you trifle with his disposition to gout. I am now convinced that where it
is in the constitution it is a most dangerous think to let link, as it assumes so
many difterant appearances, and that it is always to be wished to have regular
fits, and I believe Lath is the properest place. This idea naturally must distress
me, as it was the only remedy left untried, and I believe it the only effectual
one. However, the decrees of Heaven are not to [be] murmured at. May
Heaven of its infinite goodness teach me to submit. I shall remain here all
winter. What I am to do afterwards I cannot at present pretend to guess ; hut
I shall always acquaint you from time to time of my resolutions, or of whatever
happens to my children. The little folks thrive charmingly.
The death of his royall highness the Duke of Cumberland] is supposed to be
a great event. I have not sufficient intercourse with the world to tell you any
political news. But if at any time I can inform you of what is for your interest
to know, I will not fail, as there is nobody's in whom I am more sincerely inter-
ested. Adieu. J. E.
296. (12) Condoling with the Countess on the death of her daughter,
Lady Catherine. ISth January 1766.
My dear Lady Sutherland, — It is impossible for any heart to feel more
sincerely for you in your present affliction than I do. But as I am a living
instance of how much it is possible for human nature to bear, I am led to hope
that you will, with a proper resignation, submit to the decrees of Providence. This
1766.] JEAN- WEDDERBURX, LADY ERSEIXE. 295
is perhaps the first thing your heart ever felt that deserves the name of sorrow,
(Lpray God it mny be the last), and you will probably think it of the severest
sort. I confess it is bad enough, but I hope you will not think me unfeeling of
your misfortune if I say, that whilst it pleases heaven to preserve Lord Sutherland
you still have uncommon share of happiness. It is no small satisfaction to me to
learn that you are possess'd of so much fortitude. It is a quality that Is attended
with many advantages, but I know yon have what is the greatest support in dis-
tress, which is an entire reliance on the goodness of God, and a thorough convic-
tion that afflictions here are necessary towards attaining joy and felicity hereafter.
I have often regretted from selfish principles the distance between us this winter.
I now regret it entirely on your account. But I pray and intreat you not to
persue your scheme of remaining in the country this winter, as I think a little
more society will prove necessary to both you and Lord Sutherland, and the
journey will perhops be of service to his health, and you will receive some satis-
faction in being at Edinburgh with Lady Elizabeth. I will not at present trouble
you with any more than to assure you that I ever am, yours affectionately,
J. Erskine.
London, January ISth, 1766.
To the Countess of Sutherland.
297. (13) Her anxiety about the health of the Countess and her husband.
25th January 1766.
I HAVE delayed writing to you again, my dear Lady Sutherland, for some days,'
being sensible how unfit a correspond ant I am for one in distress, as the natural
disposition of my mind at present would rather lead me to gloomy subjects. I
have heard it observed that nothing so soon reconciles the mind to its miseries
as a comparison with others. I cannot quite say that I have found this to be true,
because I find few states so bad and fewer worse than my own. But allow me to
say that I think that cannot be said to be your case, and therefore I offer myself
as a fit object of contemplation to you ; at the same time hoping that your reason
and goodness has been of more use to you than any thing. My anxiety about
your health and Lord Sutherland's would lead me to be very particular in my
enquiries and even in my advices. But if I teaze you too much I should disgust
296 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [17C6.
you with my letters, when I would only wish to amuse you. However, there is
one thing I must beg to know, whether you adhere to your resolution of remain-
ing in the country, or if you propose going to Edinburgh. I need not tell you
what a pleasure it is to me to hear from you, but it would be a double satisfaction
to me at present, and perhaps you by degrees find any employment of use to 3 T ou.
I beg to be remembred by Lord Sutherland and Captain Sutherland ; and ever
am, my dear lady Suthevlands most affectionate J. Erskine.
London, January "2 5th, 17G0.
To the Countess of Sutherland.
298. 'William, seventeenth Earl of Sutherland, to his Countess, stating
that he is proceeding to Eosehall.
Lairg, 6 o'clock.
My own Moll, — I am just going for Eosehall. Its a fine morning. I had a
charming ride yesterday, and I hope the weather will be good. Do you ever
think of me as 1 do of you ? You are always uperinost in my thoughts. God
bless you. Don't be uneasy if I come not home till Sunday. I always am what
I ever shall be, my dear Marys most affectionate slave,
Lest compliments to your sister-widow. Is the Doctor busy with the
brackans, etc. 1
To the Countess of Sutherland, Dunrobin.
299. Mary, Countess of Sutherland, to [no address], — intimating the death
of her stepfather, Sir Charles Erskine of Alva.
Milns Square, April 7th, [17C3].
Before this will reach you, you will have heard that my good worthy father is
no more. I came to town yesterday morning before eight o'clock and found my
mother and this family as composed as I could expect after such a misfortune, for
which I myself feel a great deal. I had your letter and am glad to find you find
17G6.] MARGARET, COVXTESS OF MORAY. 297
so. much time to jaunt about London, anil hope they will always turn out agree-
able to you. I am pretty well in my health, and am always, with great affection,
yours, M. Suth d .
300. Margaret, Countess of Moray, to Mary, Countess of Sutherland,
— giving news about Lady Doune, Lady Erskine, and others.
Dear Mary, — I know Skelpoh will be half in the pett at his own fatt aunty ;
but as I heard frequently of }'OU all and had nothing entertaining to say to you I
even dclayd from day to day till I am half ashamed, of myself. For tho I don't
trouble myself with writing to such far away folks as you, yet I am pretty well
satisfied with a little correspoudance I hold some times with good Lady Alva. As
to our family hure, we are just in the way you left us in. I can not say the
earl is either better or worse ; but I am afraid the bad weather and confinement
may be severe on him. However, he still keeps up his spirits, and gives us our
scolds at the cards duely. We have had our house as full as it could hold, and
sometimes fuller, for some weeks past — the Abtudours and Selkirk and his family.
The girls are pTetty, but not so fair as Catherine, who I am glad to hear is turned
quit a composed, discreet woman. I hear manny praises of your black beauty
oveT the watter. As I could not see her myself I sent one of my trustie secretarys
to pay my compliments to her little ladyship, and to bring me a particuler
discription of her, which she did most agreably to me, and says she is thriveing
. charminglie. My two young ones here ar delightfull little creatures, and are great
part of our amusement. Doune and his wifie are in town. She intended being
north but some complaint in her stomack confined her for three weeks, and by
that time the season for a laclys travailing was over, Doune intends still to be at
Darn way, but for so short a time and so much hussiness that I'm afraid he wont
have time to go your lenth, which he woud wish to do if he coud. I think you
have a chance of meeting in summer, as Lady Doune is determind to be north in
the spring, and I hope you will both come south for the winter. I rejoice to hear
that you both agree so well with your country retirement, and that the earl has
had no vissitations of the gout. Poor Jamie Wemyss has been ill of it and is not
yet recoverd, but he is better than he was some time ago. Bess and the weans
are vastly well, hut I never hear a word from her but when I send on purpose,
2p
20S FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS, [17
and then she is forced to give me a little scrawl. She has the familie distemper
of dislike to wilting a> much as I have, and none need have it more.
1 have never had the courage yet to writ to Lady Erskine, tho I am coneious
I shoud do it. Poor soul, she has recoverd vastly well, and her little daughter
is very thriving, and the two hoys doing well. What a sad loss we made in the
death of that worthy mau. I dont know yet in what sittuation her aud the
children are left, but I am afraid but in a poor one. I had the pleasure to see
her brother Sandy here for a day. He says she bears her misfortune with great
propriety. He promisd me another vissit before he leaves Scotland. I shall then
enquire particulerlic about her and let you "know. I have not writ netheir to
Mrs. St. Clair, so you may giuss 1 '11 be pretty much at the horn. But, indeed,
I writ to nobody. Since writing this far Lady Doune is come home from her
scampers, and tells mc she begins a new one on Monday, for she setts out with
her lord and Lord Gray for Darnway for a fortnight only. I wish I had her
safe back again, for its realy to late in the year for such a frolick. But shes will-
full and has just fixd her fancy on it. 1 will not venture to turn this leave, so
will bid my dear Mary adieu. Every body here joins mc in blissings and good
wishes to you, and Skelpock, and Catherine. Its not a week since I heard from
Bessy, but since that I find she has been ill as ■usual, but after it was over she
sleepd well last night, and is quit composed, and has no feverishness nor head-
aick. So I hope her recovcrie will be speedy.
To Countess Mary.
301. Mary, Countess of Sutherland, to Martha, Countess of Elgin and
Kincardine,— thauking her for her sympathy, and about Lord Suther-
land's illness.
Dunrobiu, January 31st, 17G6.
My 'dear Lady Elgin, — I never doubted of our having yours and Lord Elgins
sincere sympathy in the affliction which we lately suffered, and nothing have I
met with so comfortable as the assistance your good letter gave me to support
myself under it. It has pleased God to support me under the first trial I ever
met with, and in all its circumstances a sudden and very severe one ; and I have
the more reason to be thankfull for it that I have since had much to suffer on
176C] WILLIAM, SEYEXTEEXTII EARL OF SCTIIERLAXD. 299
my lords account, who, tho very resign d to the will of God, has found this sudden
check vctv severe upon Ins delicate constitution. The gout from not fixing gave
me a very great alarm, and indeed he himself was under very great apprehension
fur some days, and the dread of the greatest of all misfortunes has almost recon-
ciled me to what was my duty, tho a difficult oue to submit to without repining.
I bless God he is now pretty well, is just now out in the chaiss with the doctor.
"We proposs, so soon as he is able to travel, to go to Lath, but when that may
be we cannot guess. This is the first time 1 have attempted writing, except to
my mother, which you would readily forgive if you knew the distress we have all
been in till within thess very few days, which will like ways excuss to you the
confusion and hurry I now write in, as we are now busy settling our affairs here
to be able to get away when the weather and my lords health will admit of it.
My lord has not been able to answer Lord Elgins very friendly letter. We were
much the better for them both. In all situations of my mind I am ever, my dear
Lady Elgin, with esteem and affection, yours,' M. Stnn D .
302. William, seventeenth Earl of Sutherland, to the Hon. James
Wejiyss of Wemyss, — life at Bath. 1
Bath, 22d Aprill [17GG].
Dear James, — I now give up all thoughts of seeing you att Bath, which I own
is a disapointment to us, but we must be satisfied with our fate.
I drink most regularly the waters. I am very well, and no sign3 of gout
whatever. We shall continue here some weeks, and then go to London. You
have all the news, I make no doubt, better than I have here. Sir Lawrence and
MastertOTi are here. Long goes for Scotland soon, and I make no doubt will see
you in his way to Clackmannan to gett health for next winter. My sister men-
tions in her letter that my aunts were more composed than formerly. I don't
find it. They propose a submission which I had the offer of att the beginning,
and wou'd not accept of. Shou'd I give up one thousand when I shou'd have
two, besides the shaniefull way the last settlement was made. I hate lawsuits,
particularly with my relations, but shall continue in this unless my friends con-
vince me to the contrary. I don't think we have much good company here att
1 Original letter at Wem}'ss Castle.
300 FAMILY ASD DOMESTIC LETTEES. [17CG.
present, and one week shews the amusements of the next. I beleive their 's
plenty of thieves, but I don't play to lose any summ. I have given up that, with
many other fotlys, — att least I hope so. Lord Cassilss, Hopton, and many Scotch
are here, nott forgetting Frank Xapier, who begs to be remember'd to you. My
love to Bess, etc., and I am, dear James, your most obedient and affectionate,
Sutherland.
303. Mary Maxwell, Countess of Sutherland, to The Same, —
Lord Sutherland ill with fever. 1
Bath, May 10th, 1766.
Dear Mr. Wejiyss, — My lord continues to have more favourable symptoms in
his disease, but his fever has not had a crisis, so the event must be very uncer-
tain. I this day begin to indulge a little hope, but this with caution. Lord
Hopetoun, who, with his family, have shewn great friendship to me, would inform
you of the great danger my loid has beeu in, and I hope you will not be sur-
prised at my not writing you, when I tell you that these sixteen nights past I
have not had my cloaths off, and have never been able to leave his bedside. He
has had a dreadful 1 fever, and I 'm afraid his delicate constitution will not stand,
tho' the worst symptom begin to leave him. Dr. Sutherland was to write you,
but I have great reason to think he would not tell you the worst of it, as he has
from the beginning endeavour'd to deceive himself and others. You may believe
I have had the best physicians in Bath, and sent to London for Fordyee, who
could not stay long with us. I write to you, as I 'm afraid poor Lady Betty will
be much hurt, and perhaps surprised to learn the way her brother is in. He is
quite sensible at present ; for some days he was quite delirious. He just now
gets the bark in great quantities, which is a proof that they think the fever
abated. I write by fire light, so hope you will be able to read this from your
'affectionate humble servant, M. Suth d .
1 Original letter aj; Weinyss Ciistle.
17CC] JOHN MACKENZIE OF DELV1XE. 301
304. John Mackenzie of Del vine, W.S., Edinburgh, to Dugald Gilchrist,
faetor at Dunrobin, — instructing liim as to the arrangements for the
funeral of the Countess of Sutherland. 7th June 17GG.
Dear Dugall, — Sandy M c Kenzie acquainted you last post in two lines of the
first part of this dismall tragedy in the family of Sutherland, the death of the
amiable Lady Sutherland on Sunday morning which was brought me by express.
She fell a sacrifice to the duty and affection of a devoted wife, for tlio' infected
with my lords fever she would never leave him till she was too far exhausted to
recover.
Her fate is now irrevocable. Her memory must live while any lives who
knew her, and respect must be paid to her corpse by a decent interment in the
family isle at Dornoch. For this purpose undertakers bring the body here, and I
propose ingaging others to carry it to the Meiklc Ferry, where you will have proper
persons eonveend (as you will be hereafter apprysd of the day) and attending to
cany it to Cyderhall, there to be lodgd for some days till you can have things
prepar'd and a proper company of the best friends and gentlemen eonveened for
the interment, which may be put over in the fornoon, and the eompany deeently
entertaind afterwards either at Dornoch or Dunrobin as is judgd most convenient
and suitable. These are the outlines of the plan as setld at a meeting with Mr.
George MeKay, Sir James Colquhoun, and Ulbster, subject to sueh amendments
as may be judg'd necessary nearer the plaee of execution.
You will therefore take the aid of Sir John Gordon, Caroll, or any other
gentlemen in the country and [se]tle what preliminary^ necessary may have
eseapt us, and step [ov]er one or more of you to Balnagowan and get Captain
Ross's opinion on the propriety of any eircumstance you doubt of, who is too
generous, and has too much regard both for my lord and the memory of the
deserving lady, to deeline giving his adviee, as it is every bodys wish that this
ceremony should be gone throw with all proper decency ; and if buriall letters
are necessary, it eannot be improper that the present worthy representative of a
family that livd in such neighbourly habites with my lords should subscribe them,
especially when Lord Eeay and his uneles may be all at a distance. In short we
here eannot judge in sueh a matter half so well as gentlemen on the spot. I shall
take care that an eskueheon go along with the hearse. You will have, so far as
we can judge, three or four weeks to prepare matters, and the form of interment
302 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1706.
and entertainment is most of what you have to concert. You will hear from
Alexander McK[enzte] or me a.? oft as anything new occurs to us.
On Sunday, when the express came off, my lord was in a good way and pretty
free of fever, but lie I;new nothing of this sad event of which we greatly dread
the dismall effect iu his present weakly situation.
The whole scene is so moving that I write under very great confusion as well
as concern, but your prudence will supply it. I continne, dear Dugald, yours,
etc., Jo. Mackenzie.
Edinburgh, 7 June 1706.
To Mr. Dugall Gilchri&t at Dunrobin, by Dornoch.
30j. Alexander Mackenzie, W.S., Edinburgh, to Dugald Gilchrist, factor
on Sutherland, — about the illness and expected death of the Earl of
Sutherland. 18th June 1766.
Dear Sir, — The inclosd is too dismal to need commentary.
In the forenoon I made out the inclosd memorandum by Mr. Mackenzie
direction. P>ufc now you may suspend your operations, as I suppose next post
will bring you the worst news that ever you got; and their coming down in oue
hearse is the most moving spectacle that ever was seen in this island. I continue
ever yours, Alexr, Mackenzie.
Edinburgh, 18th June 1760.
Donald Eosa has paid the balhnce of Lieutenant Gray's £G0 draft.
To Mr. Gilchrist, Dunrobin, Dornoch.
(Enclosure.)
Copy — Colonel Mackaj's letter to Mr. Mackenzie, 12 June 1765.
I think I wrote you a few lines last night, after which Lord Sutherland turnd
much worse in my opinion, and continues so to-day that I can scarcely now see
the least ground to hope for his recovery, and without some wonderful change
I don't think he can hold it out till this time to-morrow. Nay, I won't be
17C6.J CAPTAIX JAMES SUTHERLAND. 303
surprizd if it is all over with him before night, for which reason I shall keep tins
open as long as the post horns will allow.
"What a moving tragical sceuu this is altogether % to see such an affectionate
couple cut off in the flower of life in the midst of every felicity and happiness
that this world can reasonably afford. One is at a loss what to say or think.
Near 8 at night. — Appearances continue worse and worse. At present I don't
think he can hold it out beyond this night. God grant I may be mistaken. But
I fear I am not. No disorder ever had such various turns. Even this day, for
an hour, he seem'd greatly better, which I believe was the last effort of nature.
NINETEEN LETTERS about the Sutherland Peerage Case addressed to the
Honourable James Wemyss of "Wemyss, M.P., husband of Lady Elizabeth
Sutherland, who was aunt of Elizabeth, Countess of Sutherland, the suc-
cessful claimant of the Peerage, 17G6-1771. 1
3C6. (1) From Captain James Sutherland of the OSth Regiment of Foot, —
Candidature of Colonel Scot, — Sir Robert Cordon.
Dunrobin, 2d September 17GG.
Dear Sir, — I wrote to you on Saturday last, and I hope the stile of my letter is
as moderate as you wish it. In the name of wonder what does the Privy Seal
mean? does he think people are fools'} or that the unfortunate situation of this
family condemns it to serve his] or the purposes of his syfocants 1 God forbid !
The year 1715 and forty-five are still fresh in the memory of the people of this
country, and the songs made ou those occassions are handed down from father to
son with as much care, if not more, then the poems of Fingal ; and if you was to
propose the son of a family who has been playing a game at cut throats with us
for ages past, the people here would think you meant to sell the liberty of your
country as well as the interest of this family. Acts of Parliament can take
away our dress, etc., but the affections of the people to this family are not easily
removed, except an Act is made to make it treason for singing the loyal songs in
1 The original letters are at Wemyss Castle.
304
FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS.
[1766.
praise of the victory 3 the family of Sutherland have gain'd over the rebells. If
such an Act was proposed, I make no doubt but the gratitude of Colonel Scot to
this family would make him second the motion. I hope you will dispute every
inch of ground with that gratefull gtutleman. He may live to repent the opo-
sition he gives you. I ean assure you it will not strenthen his interest in this
part of the world, and sorry am I that Lady Jannet and he has eome to a com-
promise. You are sure of your seat in Parliament, and I have no idea that the
great people will go out of their way to offend a man who is independant of
them ; therefor, in your situation, you have reason to expect suport, and I
make no doubt but you will get it if it is necessary, and you will drive Colonel
Scot out of the field. . . .
It is two days since I return'd from the Highlands, and notwithstanding my
fatigue, I have ever since been wandering in the eharter-room. Sandy Mackenzie
returns here in ten days from Caithness. My best wishes to Lady Betty ; tell
her my mind is very much at ease since yesterday. I fouud her grandmother's
contract of marriage, and Earl John Eoy has settled matters so, that was our
worthy friend so unnatural as to hurt his children or sister, it was not in his
power. There is one thing in that deed, that Earl John conveys the honours
with the estate to the heirs-femal, and if the husband of the Countess do not
take the name of Sutherland and arms of the familly, the estate goes to the nixt
in succession. This, I aprehend, will prove a fatal battery to the pretender. I
am only afraid that Sir liobert will not try it, but leave it doubtfull, and watch
for what may be lookt on as a more favourable oportunity. , . .
My best wishes to you, Lady Betty, and the lads, and I am, with the greatest
esteem, dear Sir, your most obliged and affectionate humble servant,
James Sutherland.
307. (2) From The Same, — papers in the charter-room.
Dunrobin, 13th September 1766.
Dear Sir, — Sandy Mackenzie has finiah'd the charter-room, and I flatter myself
that his searches will prove very usefull, as we have found papers far beyond
our expectations. Lord Amect [Auehinleck] wanted much that his son should be
imployed in looking over the family papers. I have a very good opinion of the
abilitys of both the father and son, but I sincerely wish that neither of them nor
1766.] C APT A IX JAMBS SUTIIERLASD. 3o5
the Justice Clarke knew as little of the charters as possible, and I this day have
given my mind freely to Delven on this subject. It' Lord Hales or Sir Adam
Ferguson could be prcveal'd upon to pass their opinions on the papers we have
coleeted, I should be very happy ; therefor I think it is of great consequence to
this family to iuterest any of those two gentlemen, and I think it is very neces-
sary that you should take a trip to Edinburgh to see Delven, but take no notice
of my having hinted this to you. I have mention'd to Delven that Sandy
Mackenzie or I will bring the papers with us, or if it is necessary they will be
sent by an express. Sir Robert has wrote to many people in the North beging
to have all the iuteligence they can give him about Adam Gordon, Earl of
Sutherland, having granted any rights to them, and he complains to the tutors
of the Countess putiug him to all this trouble.
I oiler my best wishes to Lady Dotty and the lads, and I am, with the greatest
esteem, dear Sir, your most obliged and affectionate humble servant,
James Sutherland.
308. (3) From Tile Same, — Sir Robert Gordon's claim.
Edinburgh, 16 November 176G.
Dear Sir, — Sir Robert's agent has wrote a letter to Mr. Mackenzie at the desire
of his council, demanding a review of our papers. Sandy Mackenzie has been
this morning with our council j they are to meet to-morrow evening at Mr.
Durnet's, and than to determin whither they will comply with this request. I
can perceive by the tenor of Sir Robert's agent's letter to Mr. Mackenzie that they
want to get the cry against us. I saw Sir Adam Ferguson, who thinks the enemy
is not intitled to see any of our papers. Macqueen is engaged for Sir Robert, so
we have retain'd Mr. Burnet and Mr. Weight, who are both very cliver men. T
am inform'd that Lord AfBect has made out a short memorial of similar cases to
this of the infant Countess, which will be of great service to us. The council for
the infant are Sir Adam Ferguson, Messrs. Burnet, Weight, Boswel, Crosbie,
William Mackenzie, and Alexander Gordon. My best wishes to Lady Betty and
the lads, and I am, dear Sir, yours, J a 3 - Suth d -
-°Q
300
FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS.
[1760.
309. (•[) From The Same, — meeting at Lord Auehinleck's.
Edinburgh, 5th December 1700.
Sandy Mackenzie told me that he was to acquaint you that last Saturday
Lord Afflect had all the tutors to sup with him, and Delven and Sandy was^of the
party ; they met at seven that evening and did not part till past one in the
morning, and the conversation the whole time was on the afairs of the Countess.
The Lord Justice Claike and the other two Lords and Sir Adam Ferguson are
clearly of opinion that Sir Robert Gordon can never succeed if he should attemp
to trye fur the titles. They agreed that Sir Robert should have a sight of any of
the charters he would condescend upon, but befor that could he granted to him,
he most prove his propinquity. They likwise thought it right that all the
charters that aie favourable for the infant ought to be registrate, Lord Justice
Clarke declared the strongest attachment to the child, but as her afairs might come
befor them, it would be hurting her interest if he was to accept, as he could not
vote in her afairs. Lord Afflcct setm'd to aprove of that doctrine, but Lord
Hales said he would accept, as he looks on it as a matter of conscience to fullfill
the intentions of our departed friends. . . . Best wishes to Lady Betty and the
lads. JAS - SUTHD -
310. (5) From The Same,— Charter by King David the Second.
Edinburgh, 29th January 1767.
Dear Sir,— ... I suped with Mr. Burnet two nights ago, when he read over ■
his seearches into the tittles of the family of Sutherland. He has collected with
great pains and arrainged them in such a. manner that it most appear to every
disinterested person that the Countess tittles are as certain as her estate, and a
charter is discovered which plainly shows that as far back as King David the
Second's time, they knew the distinction of heirs-male and heirs whatsoever,
for the very same year that that king married his sister to William, Earl of
Sutherland, and errected the earldom of Sutherland into a regality, he grants a
charter to the said Earl, his brother-in-law, of a thanage in Aberdeenshire, to him
and his heirs-male. Such a speciality as this clearly proves Countess Elizabeths
right to be Countess of Sutherland on her brother's death. Sir Kobert Gordon is
1767.] CAPTAIN JAMES SUTHERLAND. 307
changing his ground (as it's said), and means to prove that there was no Earl of
Sutherland till after Adam Gordon married Countess Elizabeth ; in short, he is
groping in the dark, and I imagine he expects, either from the chapter of aceee-
dents or mismanagement, to make up pretentions. Pray write the letter I meu-
tion'd to you, and I am, dear sir, your affectionate humble servant,
James Sutherland.
311. (G) From The Same, — meeting of counsel.
London, 20th March 1767.
Dear Sir, — 1 would have wrote to you last night after 1 left Mr. York's cham-
bers, but the inflimation in my eyes, from a sever cold I have had for some days
past, was so great that I could not bear to look on paper. I am a good deal
better this day, and I hope in a few days I shall be able to go abroad as usual.
The council that met last night were Mr. York, Sir Flecher Xorton, Mr.
Wederbnra, and Mr. Forrester. M r. Gordon, our soliciter, stated our case both
for and against us in as strong a light as could be ; and I most do the justice to
Mr. Mackenzie that his attention brought them to explanations that was very
essential for us to guard against ; and the case of Cassells was pertieularly pointed
at, as that is the ground that Sir Hubert has taken up. Was our proof more
deficient then it really is, the council all agreed that upon the same principle of
Cassells as our charters are to heirs general, that it makes for us.
All of them disaproves of making any stir for the infant till such time as she
is attack'd, and all of them agree that it is the clearest ease that ever was pro-
posed to be brought befor the house of peers. They are to give a sign'd
opinion this day or Munday, a copy of which will be sent to you.
We have got Sir Robert's pedigree of the Got dons, Earls of Sutherland,
which is erroneous ; and Mr. Davidson, who has been so 'much hackned in
falshood and impertinence in his Hamilton against the Douglas, that he thinks he
may say whatever his raskally purposes points out without being taken notice of.
I am well iuformd that Sir Robert is to petition the king, and our petition is
preparing to defend ourselves, as Countess of Sutherland, and I am not sorry that
we are to be attack'd; but I am informd that it will not get a hearing this
session, because it will take many weeks to produce the proper evidences ; and I
find it is resolved to put the enemy to every expence possible.
308 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [17G7.
I am now to tell you that I divested myself of every sort of partiality
when I met those gentlemen List night j and from the arguments they used both
for and against the countess' tittles, 1 am perfectly satisfied of the justness of our
cause, and the little danger there is of our loseing them, if Sir Robert should
insist to trye it. I am now anxious about Lady Butty. Pray let me hear from
you, as many of your friends here enquire dayly at me about her. My best
wishes attend you all ■ and I am, with great esteem, my dear sir, your most
obliged and affectionate humble servant, James Sutherland.
P.S. — The people here pay great compliments to Lord Montbodo for his
lucuberations on our afairs. Mr. Mackenzie and I think of speaking to the Duke
of Atholl, and if His Grace apwe*, we intend to buy a peice of plate for Lord
Montbodo. 1 hope this will meet with your aprobation. 1
312. (7) From ALEXANDER BOSWELL, LORD AUCIIINLECK, — petition for delay.
Edinburgh, 14th March 1770.
Dear Sir, — I am just now come from a meeting of Lady Sutherland's tutors,
who are now in toun. We were astonished at the accounts sent us by you and
Mr. Gordon, of an intention to have that very interesting cause of the peerage
tried without allowing us an oportunity to disprove the many new averrments
in Sir Robert Gordon's Case. We hope there is some mistake in this matter, for
it does not seem possible that any court wou'd proceed to try a cause which is
properly a cause in fact, as it depends entirely on the usage of Scotland in antient
times, without giving the parties an oportunity to ascertain the facts. We came
to the resolution of directly sending up a petition to the House of Lords, praying
a delay on these grounds, which appear unanswerable. It is to be subscribed by
Lord Hailes, Sir Adam Fergusson, Mr. John Mackenzie, and your humble
servant, all the tutors now r in town, and goes by express to morrow. Meautime
Sir Adam is preparing for his journey, half prepared as he is with materials,
altho' I am hopefull the matter will be put off, and, if so, we shall be able to
satisfy the House of Lords that Sir Robert's new averrments are as palpable mis-
representations as those he threw out in his first Case, which, on seeing our Case,
1 The piece of silver plate is still at Monboddo.
1770.] ALEXANDER MACKENZIE, W.S. 300
he was forced to abandon. I have nothing further to add but to beg you may
take the trouble to forward the enclosed to Sir John Pringlc. I am, with great
regard, dear sir, your most obedient humble servant,
Alexr. Bos w el.
313. (S) From Alexander Mackfnzie, Writer to the Signet, ageut for the
Countess of Sutherland, — Lord Hailes to prepare the draft of the Additioual
Case.
Edinburgh, 7th May 1770.
S IR> — Sinee Sir Adam Ferguson came from London, Lord Hailes, he, and I have
been considering the plan of the Additional Case for the Countess of Sutherland.
Lord Hailes agreed to prepare the first draught of it upon my furnishing
him with remarks on the facts set furth in Sir Robert Gordon's Supplemental
Case. These remarks I have uow compleated, being above 100 pages, which
I am to lay before Lord Hailes tomorrow. But as Sir Adam desir'd to be
furnish t with a copy of my remarks, and to send them to him to Kilkerrau, I am
to send him them by first post on your returning me the iuclos'd covers, addresst
to him, to inclose them. His address is " To Sir Adam Fergusson of Kilkerran,
Bart, by Maybole."
I have no doubt but every mau of candor will be satisfied from reading our
Additional Case that there was just reason for our application to check the
many gross willfull misrepresentations in Sir Robert's Case ; and I trust to the
justice of our cause for a fair and attentive hearing. . . .
314. (9) From The Same, — Lord Hailes preparing the Case.
Edinburgh, IS June 1770.
. . . Lord Hailes is bussy preparing the Additional Case, and Sir Adam Fergusson
writes that he will be in town the end of this week. Yesterday I had the honour
of a visit of Lady Alva, who told me that the little countess was in perfect
health. She told me also that the Dukes of Buccleugh and Montague have
engaged to attend the hearing of the peerage, and have read the Cases fur that
purpose. . . .
310 FAMILY AND DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1770.
315. (10) From The Same, — Additional Case by Lord Ilailes.
Edinburgh, 22 August 1770.
Slit, — . . . Meantime I have the pleasure to acquaint you that Lord Hailes has
very near fiuiohd the Additional Case for the countess, which is a work of very
great learning and accuracy, and proves the many false assertions in Sir Robert
Gordon's last Case. His lordship directs that it shall be printed here under his
own eye, and I have already given the printers a specimen of it, agreeable to
Lord llailes's directions. We expect Mr. Solicitor Gordon will come in to town
(as he is now in Clydesdale) to as&ist in revising the Case, and Lord Ilailes is to
carry it with him to Kilkerrau, where he goes (after it 's finiaht) and get it
revis'd and consider'd by Sir Adam Fergusson.
The countess is iu perfect health. I had the honour of dining with her this
day at Lady Al va's. . . .
31C. (II) From The Same, — Mr. Gordon to go to London.
Edinburgh, 23 October 1770.
Sin, — In consequence of a card from Mr. Anderson, I wiite this to acquaint you
that the Countess of Sutherland's new Case is now in very great forwardness.
Lord Hailes has thrisht the draught of it to a very few pages, and it is mostly
revis'd by Sir Adam Fergusson, after which it is sent to the press, so that there are
now upwards of GO pages of it printed in large 4to, and I hope that next week it
will be all printed and ready to be distributed, and, for the sake of dispatch, it is
■ sent to Sir Robert Gordon's agent here by sheets, as it comes thrown off from the
press. At first sight it will be thought lung, but after reading, I 'm persuaded it
will not be thought so, as the many misrepresentations of fact and argument con-
tain'd in SirRubeit's Supplemental Case render'd it necessary to explain and state
the facts fully, in order to be sufficiently understood. Mr. Gordon, the solicitor,
agrees to go to London to attend it, but he desires to know the terms upon which
he goes before he setts out. Mr. Mackenzie thinks he should have a certain sum
in case we lose, and so much more in case we prevail, so as to be a spurr to his
attention and diligence. Mr. Gordon has been wrote to to this purpose, and his
answer is expected this week. "When it comes you shall be acquainted. ... I
very respectfully am, sir, your most obedient humble servant,
Alexr. Mackenzie.
1770.] ALEXANDER MACKENZIE, W.S. 311
317. (12) Fioni The Sa^ie, — consultation at New Hailes, etc.
Edinburgh, 6th November 1770.
Sir. — On Thursday last Mr. Gordon, solicitor, eame to town to revise the Case,
and concert our plan of operation. After revising the whole Case in manuscript
(which was compleated by Lord Hailes last week), he and I went out to New
Hailes and converst over it with his lordship.
Mr. Gordon is exceedingly well pleased with the Case, and thinks wc have
brought clear evidence to confute Sir Robert Gordon's Supplemental Case, and has
great hopes from it. Tho' long and full, Mr. Gordon thinks it the more proper, as
it explains the whole case so clearly that every other Peer, as well as Lord Mans-
field, will be able to be master of it and understand it, which they might not do was
the Case shorter. Mr. Gordon had wrote Mr. Wedderburn of his having revis'd
and approven of it, so as Mr. Wedderburn may allow his name to be put to it,
without his own revisal, along with Sir Adam Ferguson's. lie has also wrote
Mr. Spotiiswood to attend the Ear, and acquaint Mr. AVedderburn, in case any
motion is made by Sir Robert Gordon for the hearing, and that they may get the
20th of January, or any other day the House pleases to fix after the Christmas
holydays, so as to give time to the judges and lawiers to consider the ease before
the hearing. He also desir'd Mr. Spotiiswood to wait on Lord Mansfield, and
explain to him the cause of the Cases not being lodged on the first of September,
viz., that Lord Hailes, who draws it, was one of the judges of the Court of Session,
and so cou'd not get it sooner done, and that Sir Robert's agent here got it sheet
by sheet as fast as it came from the press. I have this night sent Mr. Spottis-
woode (by Colonel Munro) all that's printed of the Case, being about 140 p. in
4to, and told him that I wou'd send him the rest by post as fast as it's printed.
On Thursday I'm to send Mr. "Wedderburn by post all that's printed. And I
gave the Duke of Athol, in his way here to London, all that was then printed, so
as that he might be prepar'd. I hope the whole will be finisht in 4 or 5 days
as I keep the printers close working even at by-hours to dispatch it. . . . Mr.
Gordon promises to sett out for London as soon as the day for the hearing is
fixt.
312 FAMILY AND DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1770.
313. (13) From The Same,— the hearing of the cause, etc.
Edinburgh, 20 November 1770.
... On Saturday morning I dispateht per express for London a large cloagbag
full of the little countess's new Case, and have since sent about 400 copies more
by sea and land. Mr. Spottiswood writes me that, after advising with the Duke
of Athol, he and Sir Robert Gordon's solicitor were to fix on the 20th of
January or thereabout for the hearing of the cause, in case the house wou'd agree
to that time, which it is probable they will. . . .
Every person who has seen the Case is highly pleasd with it. I 've given
Mr. Anderson a copy to be forwarded to you per first opportunity, and you may
have more copies if you desire them. There is a vast demand here for them.
Sir Adam Fergussou is come to town, and preparing for his appearance. . . .
319. (14) From The Same,— the Case distributed among the Peers.
Edinburgh, 27 November 1770.
Mil. SrOTTiswooD writes me of his having received the copies of the Additional
Case per express, and of their being immediately distributed among the Peers
most likely to read them, particularly Lords Mansfield, Cambden, Marchmont,
Littleton, Dartmouth, and many others. ... All the lawiers and others who
have read it [the Case] here are convinced and delighted with it as a most valu-
able treatise on the subject. I hope it will have the same effect in London.
There are now 700 copies sent thither, and the 300 I kept will scarce answer the
vast demand made for it here. . . .
320. (15) From The Same, — petition for hearing of the cause.
Edinburgh, 5 December 1770.
Immediately on receipt of your letter of 2S November I put up two of
Lady Sutherland's Additional Cases and sent them to Mr. Auderson, to be for-
warded to you per first opportunity, which it seems did not offer till this day,
when I got them back from Mr. Anderson's, and delivered them to your carrier
in consequence of your card.
1770.] ALEXANDER MACKENZIE. 313
Wo must be the more sparing of them [copies of the Additional Cade] that
120 copies which were sent in }ieatson's ship are lost; however, there will be
fully sufficient to answer every purpose.
Last week I sent orders to Mr. Spottiswood (after advising with all the tutors
here) to present a petition for the countess to appoint a day for the hearing, in
ease it had not been fixt before receipt of my letter. Sir liobert Gordon's agent
here told me that he had sent instructions to Sir Robert's solicitor to apply for
the hearing, so that I 've no doubt of its coming on in January or the very
beginning of February, which the Duke of Athol writes to Delvin. Our new
Case has convinced all the readers of it here, so that we have the general voice of
our side, if that is of any consequence.
I have a letter this instant from Spottiswood, that by the Duke of Athol's
opinion he was to make a motion in behalf of the countess to have a day fixt for
the hearing after 20 January, so that in a post or two I '11 expect to hear that the
day is accordingly fixt. . . .
321. (16) From The S.UIE, — meeting of Lady Sutherland's tutors.
Edinburgh, 10 December 1770.
Sir, — This day, on receipt of your letter of the 0th, 1 waited on Lords Auchin-
leck and Hailes, and Sir Adam Fergusson, who have all agreed to deferr the
meeting on Lady Sutherland's affairs till Tuesday the ISth, when you propose
being here, however, in your way to Loudou. Sir Adam Fergusson had also
engaged company to dine with him on Friday, which made it inconvenient for
him to attend, so that I hope Tuesday will answer all coneern'd. I have wrote
Lord Elgin for the 3d time to acquaint him of the day now fixt. t
I look this evening for a letter from London, advising that the day is fixt for
the hearing, but the post is not come when I write this. . . .
322. (17) From The SA2IE, — petition to fix a day for hearing the cause.
Edinburgh, 11 December 1770.
Sir, — Mr. Spottiswood writes me that, in consequence of what I wrote him by
order of the tutors here, and the Duke of Athol's opinion, he was to present a
petition in name of the countess praying to have a day fixt for the hearing, and
2 R
3H
FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS.
[1771.
that he was to notify this to the agents for Sir Kobert Gordon and Forss, so as
the petition might be mov'd on Monday the 10th (yesterday), the result of which
we can't know before Friday or Saturday. Sir Robert's agent said he wou'd
agree to the hearing coming on the 4th of February, but its bttter to have it fixt
by an order of the House. Mr. Gordon, our solicitor, is now here, and proposes
setting out for London, Saturday or Sunday nest. ...
323. (13) Alexander Mackenzie to the Hon. James ^Vewyss, — report of
Sir Robert Gordon's death.
Edinburgh, 25 January 1771.
... I propose setting out on Sunday. Meantime I inclose a letter which falls
as properly to be addresst to you as any other contradicting the report of Sir
Robert Gordon's death. His son told ine at same time that he did not imagine
the hearing wou'd eome on upon the day appointed, but that it wou'd be delay 'd
ibr a week or two. By his staying here so long he certainly relies upon a
delay. . . .
324. (19) Alexander Boswtli., Lord Auchixleck, to The Same,— congratula-
tions on the success of the Countess.
Auehinleek, 21 May 1771.
Dear Sir, — I have received your very obliging letter. I always thought our
. young pupil's title to be Countess of Sutherland was quite clear, and yet I confess
that her prevailing to have it ascertain'd gave me very great joy, for, as different
men have different sentiments in matters of law, I was not without fears. God
be thanked it is now over. It wou'd [have] been a shocking thing had the
honours been separated from the estate, and that part of the estate which was
purchased by my good freind, Lady Strath naver, in the event of the young lady's
death without ehildcren, go away to a stranger. Every body rejoices in the young
lady's success, and, I may say further, in the knight's disappointment. My wife
begs me to present her most respectfull compliments to Lady Betty Weemyss, in
which I must humbly join mine. *\Ye all bemoan the loss of worthy Lord Elgin.
— I ever am, my dear sir, your most obedient, humble servant,
Alexr. Boswel.
1S01.] GEORGE GRAXVILLE, EARL GOWER. 315
325. The Hon. James Wemyss of Wemyss to William Sutherland, — asking
his vote for his son, Colonel William Wemyss, in connection with the
representation of Sutlicrlan Jshire. 23d March 17S4.
Dear Sir, — Parliament is to be dissolved in a few days, when I mean to retire,
being heartilly tired of the fluctuations attending that bustling life. I beg leave
to return you my most grateful thanks for your kind support on all occasions
while I had the honour of representing the county, and to sollicit the favour of
your vote and interest for my son, late colonel of the Fencible regiment. I do it
with the approbation and consent of the friends of the familly of Sutherland ; and
my son, whose heart and inclinations you have by your kindness to him fixed
amongst yon, will be much obliged to yon for your good offices, and it will be a
lasting obligation to, dear Sir, your most faithfull humble servant,
Jas. Wemyss.
Loudon, 23 March 1784.
William Sutherland, Esq., Sibbers Cross, Dornoch, KB.
326. George Granville, Earl Gower, to [John Fraser, Esq.],— intimating
the birth of a son.
Arlington Street, June 17th, 1S01.
Deah Sir, — I have great satisfaction in being able to inform you, and through
'you the rest of our friends in Sutherland, that Lady Sutherland was this morning
delivered of a son, and that they are both in good health. The enclosed letter
naturally leads one to think of Captain Dempster's situation. By the first
accounts his friends were much alarmed for the safety of his ship • but I under-
stand there is reason to hope that she has put back to Bombay. — I am, dear Sir,
sincerely yours,
X 7
316
FAMILY A2TD DOMESTIC LETTEKS.
[1803.
327. Elizabeth, Countess of Sutherland, to [no address], — intimating the
death of her father-in-law, Granville Leveson, first Marquis of Stafford.
Trentham, October 27, 1803.
Dear Sir, — We arrived here yesterday, Lord Gower having been sent for by an
express, his father being ill. On our arrival we found that the melancholy event
of his death had already taken place, after a week's illness, at the age of S3. We
shall remain here only a few days, so you will direct to London.
Lord Gowcr desires me to forward the letter from Mr. Yorke, and the pro-
clamation, which is divided into two co\ers, and which you will have juined and
pasted up upon the door of the church at Dornoch, in case any aliens should have
had the good sence to take up their residence in your neighbourhood. — Adien,
dear Sir, ever yours,
^^
328. William Wyndiiau Grenville, Lord Grenville, to George, second
Marquis of Stafford, — about the success of the Marquis at Newcastle.
Dropmore, May H, 1S07.
My dear Lord, — I most sincerely rejoice with you in your success at Newcastle,
and I trust that when the delusion of the moment is over (which already, indeed,
seems to be dispersing fast), your interest there will again be re-established on
that firm and secure basis on which it ought naturally to stand.
We have had but one contest in our county, that for Aylesbury, which has
terminated entirely in our favour, and in a manner particularly satisfactory to
Lord Buckingham, whose interest there has been shewn to be as predominant as
I always thought it would be, when the first anger of the ten-pounds men, who
lost their market by throwing the borough into the Hundreds, was over.
There have been some disappointments in the country elections, from the
effects of this senseless clamour, but I am now pretty well able to calculate as
far as England goes, and if we do equally well in Scotland and Ireland, we shall
meet Parliament with a body of 200 decided friends. — Ever, my dear lord, most
truly yours, Grenville.
1800.] SIX WALTER SCOTT. 317
329. Henry Weber to Elizabeth, Marchioness of Stafford, — acknowledg-
ing her gift received from Sir Walter Scott, etc.
Edinburgh, 1 July 1809.
Madam, — For the very handsome present which I received by the hands of Mr.
Walter Scott from your ladyship I beg leave to return my most grateful acknow-
ledgements. Nothing shall be wanting on my part to render the genealogy of
the Earls of Sutherland as correct as possible.
Being at present engaged in editing a collection of the principal English
metrical romances, 1 am anxious to shelter these compositions of the old minstrels
under the protection of a patroness who will not overlook their scattered beauties,
and will judge kindly of their many imperfections. Should I obtain permission
to dedicate them to 3-our ladyship I should have a double incitement to render
them worthy of your acceptance. I remain, your ladyship's most obliged and
humble servant, Henry Weber.
To the most noble the Marchioness of Stafford.
ELEVEN LETTERS from Walter Scott, afterwards Sir Walter. Scott of
Abbotsford, to Elizabeth, Marchioness of Stafford.
330. (1) Offering his grateful acknowledgments for her attention to
himself and Mrs. Scott. 21st July 1809.
MADAM, — I have too long delay'd sending your ladyship Mr. Webers most
respectful acknowlegements for the token of liberality with which I presented
him upon your part. It was equally unexpected and acceptable, and I have no
doubt will stimulate him to every possible exertion in behalf of the work. I
have at length got safe in to this little corner, and begin to look back upon all
the gaiety of the spring as a sort of dazzling and confused dream. But what I
shall always remember as a pleasing reality is your ladyship's kind and flattering
attention to Charlotte and myself, for which all we can offer is our grateful thanks
and constant recollection. I have been daily with Colin Mackenzie since my
return, and am happy to say I never saw him looking so well, not, at least, for
31S
FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS.
riS09
many years. I have just written a long letter to Lady Hood, whom I suppose
Sir Samml's departure will determine northwards, in which ease I hope we may
have the honour to see her at these goat-whey quarters as she passes.
Mrs. Scott joins in offering her most respectful compliments to your ladyship
and the marquis, and I am ever, dear lady marchioness, your much obliged and
truly respectful humble servant, .
Ashistiel, Selkirk, 21 July 1809.
The most noble Lady Stafford.
331. (2) Regarding Lady Hood's intended stay in India. 11th September 1811.
My best thanks, my dear lady marchioness, attend your kind grant of my boon.
The acorns, with the arrival of which you flatter me, will come most safely by
any Leith vessell to the care of Messrs. Ballantyne and Company, booksellers,
Edinburgh. I make it a rule to get as much work out of these gentlemen as I
possibly can. I hope my little grove will so flourish as to deserve being honoured
by the name of the distinguished donor.
I had a letter (a melancholy one) some time ago from dear Lady Hood. She
is a real loss to her friends, for we shall hardly find such another mixture of
enthusiasm with gaiety and good humour and unaffected simplicity. But it is
quite right she should go out with Sir Samuel, and I think she will be better
amused with her stay in India than she seems at present to anticipate. If it is
not quite the money-making place it once was, our eastern empire is considerably
improved in point of society, and I hope Lady Hood will find many (at least
among the gentlemen, for I don't anticipate highly of Indian ladies) whose con-
versation will interest and amuse her. And then there is the novelty of the scene,
with the change of manners and the mixture of eastern magnificence with
European elegance, and the dignity of the situation which our friend will not
dislike. In short, when the long and dull passage is once over, I trust she will
find herself well disposed to relish her new and in some degree dreaded situation.
As for Bandello, he is such an entertaining fellow, and shews sueh an odd
picture of life during the feudal ages in Italy, that to quarrel with him for the
coarsness and polissonerie of his time would be like shunning a wild and romantic
1811.]
SIR WALTER SCOTT.
319
walk for a few mil*}* sloughs which may he stepd over as lightly as the passenger
plenscs. J heg your ladyship will not fail to read Webster's old play. If it were
not treason to suppose that all that is rare and curious is to be found on the
shelves at Cleveland House I would refer you to a late collection of old plays in
3 volumes, double columns, printed by Miller, Albemarle Street, in which it way
inserted at my particular request. There is in it an odd and in some degree a
terrific mixture of what is wild and extravagant with the simple, pathetic, and even
childish turn of other places. I have not, I believe, a very good head for criticism,
for it certainly is not selon Us rhgles to be more affected by this sort of patch-work,
than by regular scenes where every thing mean and trifling is compleately
excluded, and the mind visited by nothing but what is meant to be in unison
with tragic feeling. I do not know whether it is the spirit of contradiction, or
whether the very pains taken to vender every thing uniform, which never actually
occurs in nature, but I feel terribly inclined to be hard hearted in the latter case,
whereas I often light upon passages in these old neglected dramatists which, from
the very strange and unexpected manner in which the)' are introduced, make the
very blood tingle. I have the first edition of Bandello, now a very rare book in
3 volumes quarto and one 12mo. It has a great number uf prefaces, and I believe
some tales which were abridged in the later editions, excepting one printed at
London about 17 60, which is coinpleat. These prefaces often contain some thing
relative to the tales, and when I go to Edinburgh I will look at that prefixd to
the Duchess of Amalphi.
I beg your ladyship will have the goodness to make my most respectful
compliments to the marquis, and am ever, your ladyship's honour'd and obliged
humble servant, Walter Scott.
Ashistiel, 11 September 1811.
332. (3) About the acorns sent him by her ladyship. 19th November 181 1.
I HAVE the honor with many and respectful thanks to acknowledge the safe
arrival of the future oaks with which Lady Stafford's goodness has gratified her
unworthy friend. They are going today to Abbotsford, but I fear I must commit
them to the lap of earth without the previous precaution of a nursery, as the
place is but partially in my possession, and I have not had time to build a wall
320 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS, [1811.
or otherwise secure a piece of ground against hares, rabbits and vermin. The
ground, however, where I am about to put them has been lately repeatedly plowd,
so there can be but few mice at present there, and 1 hope the royal ceremony of
anointing, which shall not be neglected, may serve to secure the future monarchs
of the forest from injury duriug their infancy. It must be confessd imagination
is a lively prophet, since, though the growth of an oak is so disproportiond to our
poor threescore and ten years, it can yet rear a grove of them out of a sack of
acorns. But as we dandle future soldiers, judges and prelates in our little mewl-
ing childreu, we must use the same pleasing arts of anticipation in the forest
nursery which we do in. our own. I could say many very pretty things on this
paralell, but as I am not absolutely certain that your ladyship would take the
trouble to read them, I will e'en drop it before I have hunted it down.
Lord Gowcr is, I presume, by this time returnd from Wales, \vhich is, as I
understand, a kind of Scotland, but -without its inhospitable sterility, and present-
ing many more splendid remains of feudal antiquity, The people, however, seem
to want the steady and shrewd perseverance which distinguishes our countrymen,
who, I thiuk, are more apt to exercise a sort of prospective prudence than their
brethren of the south. Much of their success may be traced to this cause, which
naturally produces the cautious value for character by which they are usually
guided. I have very little doubt that your ladyship's patriotic attempts to com-
bine industry with such reliques of ancient manners, as still dignify the highlanders
who have the good fortune to be under your protection, will succeed, though
perhaps not with the rapidity that your philanthropy may anticipate. It has
taken a generation to convert a race of feudal warriors (for such were highlauders
previous to 1745) into a quiet and peaceable peasantry, and perhaps it may take
as long to introduce the spirit of action and persevering exertion necessary to
animate them in their new profession. Man in general is a vile prejudiced animal,
and although I think Scotchmen more open to conviction (when she appears with
self interest in her hand) than most other folks, yet even with them pride and
passion will sometimes turn both visitors out of doors. In the mean time a new-
race is gradually arisiug who will be trained to those sentiments and habits which
the present state of society requires, and which it is your ladyships wish to intro-
duce, and who will, in the course of twenty years, look back with wonder at the
prejudices of their fathers, and with gratitude to their mistress who pursued their
wellfare in spite of themselves.
IS 11.] Sin WALTER SCOTT. 321
I have been looking into the story of the Duchess of Malphi. My edition of
Eandellu is the Jit si in three \olumes, 4 to., Lucca 1553, with a supplement
in Svo. printed at Lions, 1073. It contains the prefaces to the tales, omitted
I believe, in all subsequent editions excepting that of London, 1750, or there-
abouts. In the preface to that in question the author talks of the tragedy on
which he founded bis novel as a very recent and well known fact, so I suppose
there can be little doubt of it. If the marquis's library has not the 1st edition
I will copy out the preface for your ladyships satisfaction on this tragic subject.
Mrs. Scott joins in most respectful compliments, and I am ever Lady Staffords
much obliged and most respectful humble servant, "Walter Scott.
Edinburgh, 19 November 1S11.
Colin M'Kenzie looks better this winter than I have seen him for many years.
333. (4) Sending her one of his poems. Gth January.
Pear Lady Stafford, — I have taken my (far too frequent) freedom to address
to you a parcel containing a quarto poem. How it will come to Cleveland Place,
or when, I am rather uncertain, for I was too much tired of the progress of the
work to wait the denouement, so escaped from the printers when the last proof-
sheet was, to use a technical phrase, out of hand, and came to visit your ladyships
acorns, which are one day to be my oaks. They are already making a very
flattering display, as I hoped to have had the pleasure of telling your ladyship
in youx passage through Edinburgh, but the cross fates prevented my having
that satisfaction. I hope next time yon honor our northern capital I shall be
more fortunate in waiting upon your ladyship, for I have no prospect of being
in London for many years.
Everything is as dull as possible in Edinburgh, men, women, children, all
excepting Sharpe, who is himself, and extremely comical of course. He was
mentioning to me the other day his expedition to the Bow, with Lady Stafford,
in quest of Major Weir's house. I have a notion I could have found it if I had
been of the party. I remember it a sort of receptacle for half dressd flax, but
no person was then bold enough to visit it after sunset.
I had a letter from Lady Hood, with a very flattering token of her remem-
brance, nothing less than an oriental topaz cut for a seal, with a piece of Persian
322
FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LET TEES.
[1S15.
talismanic engraving, which I should have as soon construed to mean the Degial
as the name I am abouL to subscribe to this letter, unless our friend had war-
ranted that the last was the correct reading.
Mrs. Scott desires to be most respectfully remembered, and I trust your
ladyship will always believe me, — Your much obliged, most respectful, humble
servant, 'Walter Scott.
Abbots ford, C January.
334. (5) About his poem, "The Lord of the Isles," etc. 21st January 1S15.
My dear Lady Stafford, — I am much honoured by your attaching any value
to the Lord of the Isles, which I think will be the last poem I shall attempt
upon any scale of length or subject of importance. I have long made up my
mind to end with Bannockbourne.
Accept my best wishes and warm congratulations on Lady Charlottes alliance
with the house of Howard. It is au event which, independent of the particular
interest which I must always take in what concerns so nearly your ladyships
family, and Lady Charlotte in particular, is extremely agreeable to my aristocratic
prejudices, which are much hurt by the decay of the aucient nobility of Britain.
I think the Duke of Norfolk may be interested by the inclosed impression of a seal
found upon the field of Flodden, which the farmer sent, aloug with a fat turkey, to
a friend of mine about three days since. My friend eat the turkey, but, havfing]
no stomach for antiquities, gave me the seal. It is very small and of silver, not
a ring, as I would have expected. I have not yet begun a search among our
Scottish books of heraldry, but intend to commence one very soon. I think,
however, the arms are English, so I shall be at fault. It may be more modern
than the battle, but was certainly found on the field.
The last days of poor Caberfae were really heaviness and sorrow— an indistinct
perception of the heavy loss he had sustained in his sons death, which was
frequently exchanged for an anxiety about his health, and wonder why he did
not see him — so it is a mercy that the curtain is dropd. All the Highlands
ring with a prophecy that when there should be a deaf Caberfae the clan and
chief shall all go to wreck, but these predictions are very'apt to be framed after
the event I saw the hearse and coaches pass just now to take his body north.
1S15.] SIR WALTER SCOTT. 303
I believe it goes to Cromarty by sea, for in the snowstorm which seems gathering
the roads m,i?i become impracticable. I trust Lady Hoot! will be soon home.
She will have hard cards to play from the iuvolved state of the property; but
with her excellent sense and noble spirit much may be done, especially if Sir S.
has strengthened his purse a little.
] had a delightful voyage this season round Zetland, Orkney, and the
northern extremity of Scotland, then through the Hebrides, over to Ireland, as
far as to see the Giants Causeway, and so home by the firth of Clyde. The most
extraordinary cave I ever saw is in Sutherland, near Loch Eribol. "We examind
it with great care and some risque, and I sent a sort of account of it to the
Edinburgh Register. I grumbled very much to think that half a days sail would
have placed our yacht under the cannon of Dunrobin ; but our party was too
large to be intruders, for I was an humble attendant upon a Committee of the
Commissioners for the Northern Lights. "We were six weeks at sea, visiting
everything that we thought remarkable, and I seldom have spent time more
agreeably.
The Staffordshire oaks are making a vigourous show upon Tweedside, and
furnish me with a perpetual memorandum — did I want one — of your ladyships
goodness.
I hope to be in town in the course of next March, as I wish much to renew
my acquaintance with my English friends, whom I have not seen for so long a
time. I need not say with what pleasure I look forward to paying my respects
at Cleveland House. I beg my most sincere and respectful compliments to Lady
Charlotte on the late happy event. Mrs. Scott joins in respects to the Marquis,
and I ever am, dear Lady Stafford, your very sincere and respectful humble
servant, Walter Scott.
Edinburgh, 21 January 1S15.
335. (6) Acknowledging the gift of Sir Robert Gordon's History of the Earls of
Sutherland, and also about the picture of " Chevy Chase."
I OUGHT long since to have made my respectful acknowledgements to Lady
Stafford for the splendid Sutherland folio. It contains for an old antiquary like
ine many points of great interest and curiosity. Sir Robert Gordon, no doubt,
did not particularly study the picturesque, but he often gives hints which may be
324
FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LE'lTERS.
[1615.
useful to those who do. "We gather so much of the manners of old times from
these genuine sources that we should not complain of a little labour in getting at
them, and we are greatly indebted to those who like your ladyship have had the
kindness and liberality to render them publicly accessible. 1 think our friend
Lady Hood will be particularly delighted with Sir Robert's labours, for there is a
great deal of the Clan Cheinzie,
I shall be quite delighted to receive Chevy Chase. I have more connection
with the picture than your ladyship is aware, for a gentleman, a Mr. Eagle, I
think, or some such name, near Bristol, wrote to me when the artist was making
his sketch for some information about costume, etc., on which I was very happy
to afford him any lights that I po^sessd, warning him against putting our plea-
sant men of Tiviotdale into tartan, which would have been the natural idea of an
English painter. I took the liberty also of hinting that some of the large deer-
dogs might be introduced with effect, and I likewise mentiond some particulars
respecting the arms of the Seotish and English. I am delighted to hear that the
picture has been found worthy of a place in the marquis's collection, which is the
best possible proof of its merit. I never saw either the artist or the person who
applied to me on his behalf. But I took the liberty of pointing out a subject of
Border history as a pendant to Chevy Chase. It was the battle of Iteidswair,
which took place on occasion of a meeting betweeu the Scotish and English wardens
to settle aggressions which had been committed on each side. They came with
their attendants, the principal chieftains and clans on each side attending also,
and according to custom on these days of truce they mingled together in the
■ most friendly manner, and began to dance, drink, play at cards, and buy and sell
together. In the midst of this jollity a quarrell arose between the wardens, who
began (a dangerous topick) to reckon kin and blood. At length, says the old song,
speaking of Forster, the English warden, ■
■' He rose and rax'd him where he stood,
And bade him 1 match him with his marrows ;
Then Tynedale heard them reason rude,
And they let fly a flight of arrows.
Then was there nought but bow and spear,
And every man drew out a brand," etc.
1 Lt. the Scotsman.
1S23.] SIX WALTER SCOTT. 320
Now my idea was that the two contending wardens would make the central
figures, the Englishman in t^e picturesque attitude assignd him by the ballad maker
drawing himself up to his full height, while he bade the other match himself with
his equals, the men of Tynedale drawing their bows, and the immediate attend-
ants of both parties standing to their arms and mounting their horses, while those
more remote were represented, some as wondering at the alarm, and others, whom
it had not yet reachd, intent upon their business and amusement. Female
figures might be thrown in as collecting their children and hurrying from the
tumult. The scene, the bare crest of a wild hill, with a long perspective over the
deseit mountains of Eeedsdale and Tynedale. Mr. Eagle (if that be his name)
wrote to me saying the young artist was highly delighted with the idea, and pro-
posed to send me the sketch before attempting the picture. Lut I never heard
more of it. I am no judge of painting at all, nor even of what can be painted,
but I still think that this subject unites a varied and spirited interest. So if the
marquis should wish to have a companion to Chevy Chase I am not unwilling
that the idea should be considoid once more, though your ladyship is well
entitled and very welleome to laugh at me fur my pains. Mrs. Scott has the
honor to offer her respectful remembrances ; and I am ever, dear Lady Stafford,
your ladyships truly houord and obliged humble servant,
Walter Scott.
336. (7) About Mr. Lockhart, his son-in-law, and the sheriffship of Sutherland.
11th April 1S23.
My dear Lady Stafford, — Allow me to express my sincere and most grateful
thanks for the kind manner in which your ladyship has condescended to attend
to Lockhart's concern under circumstances which is the more particularly flatter-
ing, as you could only have done so by overcoming upon our account feelings
which it was both natural and proper to your ladyship to entertain. I have
heard nothing of the matter myself for several weeks and months. My friend,
the Advocate, was so intolerably wise and mysterious on the subject the last time
it was mentiond that I vow that to be made Sheriff of all Scotland either in a
friends person or my own, I could not have attempted again to penetrate the deep
and awful gloom. The game to be played is a sort of gambit at chess. First, old
Mr. Ferrier is to be permitted to resign his office of clerk of Session on some
32 G
FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETT EH S.
[1S25.
superannuation, the poor gentleman being upwards of eighty years old, and having
vvabtcd ?yt% years, and understanding to the Inst dregs in writing the judgements
of tlie Court of Session for thirty or forty [years]. This old horse released from
the carriage, James Fergusson, who vacates a place called a commissaryship, where
he judges of all the iniquities of marrying and not marrying, and marrying once
too often, and getting unmarried again altogether, is to be conferd on your present
sheriff, Charles Ross. Et puis Charles Ross, having succeeded to all these functions
of marrying and putting asunder, I have been led to entertain hopes that Lockhart
may succeed in his view. I should be delighted in it, for it is always getting
pignon sur la vie, and I think Lord Stafford and your ladyship would be gratified
with his acquaintance, as he is perfectly a gentleman, and with a very uncommon
share of talent and information. "When this happy consummation will take place,
or whether it is likely to take place at all, I really do not know. Like the old
beggar with the blue cloak and the pike-staff, I can submit to make one bow and
hold my hat out once, for what is not worth asking is not worth having. But I
am too old and stiff to gird up my loins and run after fulks chariot wheels till they
give to importunity. Eut, after all, this is only a petted way of taking the little
diplomatic secresy which great folks observe on great occasions, such as bestowing
sheriffdoms ; and, I dare say, I am complaining without reason. Only, I cannot
forget that I went expressly on purpose to Dalkeith when Lord Advocate wished
to be sheriff of Edinburgh, which he got entirely by my interest with the late
Duke of Euccleuch, and I never kept him a moment in suspense about the matter.
After all, I am a sad dog to grumble, for the world has all my life gone very well
with me. I have had more friends than I deserved, aud if like an enfant gati I
tire a little of State mysteries, it is because the distinction of such kind friends as
Lady Stafford has perhaps made me a little self-conceited. Above all, I should be
thankful that the dispositions of my family and their success in life, as far as they
have yet commenced its voyage, has more than answered my hopes and expecta-
tions. My eldest son was married in February to a young lady of considerable
fortune, and to whom he was attached. They are rather a young couple, as he is
scarce 24 ; but long engagements are like long avenues, you tire of the house
before you reach it, and though an only child, and an heiress, she gallantly deter-
mined to carry the young soldiers portmanteau.
This new cause of interest has induced me to change the purpose about which
your ladyship enquires of going to town this season, as I intend instead to go to
1825.] SIX WALTER SCOTT.
Dublin or Corke, if the 15th Hussars, ray sons regiment, shall continue there, ami
see how the young folk 5 ? are carrying on menage. I should like to see Green Erin
too, for 1 am a great admirer of the Irish, if it were not fur their ugly propensity
to cut throats, the benefit of which, I believe, they chiefly confine to themselves.
I fear, therefor, I will not have an opportunity to express my very sincere
and grateful thanks for your ladyship's goodness until you visit Scotland, when it
will go hard but I find a time to say what 1 feel very deeply. With my most
respectful compliments to the marquis, I ever am, dear lady marchioness, your
truly obliged and grateful humble servant, Walter Scotf.
Abbotsford, 11 April 1825.
337. (S) Regarding Mr. Lockhart's prospects of success in obtaining a Sheriffship.
23d June [1825].
My dear Lady Marchioness, — If you give a dog a bone he will follow you
through half a dozen streets, and so it is with obligations bestowd on the human
race, they are no sooner conferd than they are made the pretence of further team-
ing. But your ladyships great kindness encourages this species of persecution,
and your flattering enquiries about Lockharts probable success as to Sutherland
makes it incumbent on me to mention any little progress that has [been] made
with respect to that sheriffdom.
I have some reason to think that the principal obstacle in Lockharts way was
some engagement, exprest or implied, in which ministers were engaged to give
the first sheriffdom vacant to a particular individual. The sheriffdom of Caithness
is now about to open by Mr. Trails resignation, who, indeed, most kindly offerd
to make that resignation either earlier or later as it might suit Lockharts views,
for whom he has a great regard. Now we are advised by those who understand
such diplomacy that it is better that Mr. Trail resigns at once, so that this same
favourite and preferd expectant (who by the way is one of the ugliest and
stupidest fellows at the bar) may get his preferment and be out of the way, in
which case, although our great friends are too diplomatic to say anything positive,
they give intimation that Lockhart, as seconded by Lord Stafford and your lady-
ships good wishes, will have every chance of preference. I own I should be
328
FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS.
[1825.
much better pleased with his having Sutherland rather than Caithness for his
own soke, and heing of a good presence and certainly clever enough, lie would
become the halls of Dunrobin better than a thing disagreeable to the eye and
very tiresome to the ear. But the whole arrangement about Sutherland must lie
over untill James Ferriar retires from the clerks table to make way for James
Fergusson, who vacates a commissariot to make way for Charles Iloss, who leaves
Sutherland to give place, I would fain hope, to Loekhart — upon the old principle
of the cat to the rat, the rat to the halter, the halter to the butcher, the butcher to
the ox, and so forth. Now there [h] an impediment to all these parties setting
off on the race of preferment with their hands fast clenchd on each others skirts,
for Mr. Peel will not give Ferriar a superannuation pension equivalent to two
thirds of his salary, but wishes to limit him to one half, and the stout old
highland man declares he will die soouer than abate his demand All this will
probably be settled in the course of the next vacation. I thought it right that
your ladyship and my lord marquis should be master of all that I know of this
business at the risque of writing a very dull letter. My informer seems to have
a superstitious fear of all this valuable information transpiring, so it is only
designd for 3-our ladyships private ear. Indeed there are so many more amusing
subjects of conversation at Cleveland House or the Villa that the arrangements
of northern sheriffs has little chance to be selected.
I dined in company with Mareehal MacDonald yesterday, and was much
interested in his conversation, which was very agreeable and impressive. His
appearance was far from military, much like some of these north country clergymen
who come down to figure at the Geueral Assembly ; but he has a fine eye, and
what is usually impressive, grey hair, with dark eye brows. The whole expression
is plain and sagacious, and he seems very frank and communicative. He talked
a long while to me, notwithstanding the miserable French in which I was obliged
to attempt a reply, for he understands no English. He is bound for South Uist,
and to. South Uist he will go. I have a notion the place is horribly desolate,
without grandeur of any kind, even that of sterility. I question whether it will
be improved by a parcel of poor smoke-dried relatives who will rush on him to
get what they can. I advised Hector Buchanan MaeDonald to carry him to his
own fine place on Loch Lomond and persuade him that was South Uist. I '11
venture to say the visit will tire him of the Hebrides and of Seotch cousins for
the remainder of his life.
1825.] SIR WALTER SCOTT. 329
I beg ray most respectful compliments to the marquis, and am ever, my dear
Lady Stafford, your honom[d] and obliged humble servant, Walter Scott.
Edinburgh, 23 June {1825].
I think of going to Publin in the beginning of next niont[h] to sec my son
Walter, who is there with his regiment.
338. (9) That Mr. Lockhart has accepted the management of the
Quarterly Review, 5th November 1S25.
My dear Lady Marchioness, — The very flattering interest which your lady-
ship was so good as to take in favour of my son-in-law, Mr. Lockhart, in the
event of a vacancy in the sheriffdom of Sutherland, induces me to mention to
you that he has been tempted to exchange his views in this country fur others
which are opening to him in London, and which in point of emolument are much
more flattering. It is a little point of confidence as yet, but 1 may mention to
your ladyship that he has accepted the management of the Quarterly Review, the
appointments of which are about £1500 yearly, with the most favourable opening
and indeed assurance of professioual employment to a very considerable extent.
I should be glad of all this, and I am, but not with unmixd gladness, for I must
necessarily lose the greatest comfort in my life in my daughters and son-iu laws
society. Sophia has been always a ladylike young woman, and accustomed to
take a little part in the best society in this country. Her object will be to be
very quiet in London, but I should feel it a great addition to the many obliga-
tions which I owe your ladyship if you would spare her a little occasional notice,
as it is of so much consequence that she should take her ground under good
auspices in this new scene of life. I think your ladyship will neither find her
ungrateful nor undeserving such kindness.
Another favour I have to ask of your ladyship, if it were not the trouble
which it may give you. I am busied with something like a view of the French
Revolution, and I wish much to do justice to my distinguished countrywoman
Lady Sutherlands gallant efforts in favour of Marie Antoinette. Can your recol-
lection, my dear lady, supply me with any notes of that period and the events
connected with it which may be useful to such a sketch as I meditate? I do not
mean to involve myself in an actual historical work, but merely to give some
2 T
330 FAMILY AXD DOMESTIC LETTERS. [1805.
general, and, if I coin, striking views of a course of events which I think we have
almost lo?.fc sight of.
I have had Tom Moore here for three clays, siuging like a cherubim. I told
him (for it was h"mg since we had met) that as the world ealld him a Jacobin
and me a Jacobite, it was clear that we agreed to a T, and we proved good friends
accoidingly. Believe me, dear Lady Stafford, with respectful compliments to
lord marquis, ever your ladyships obliged and grateful humble servant,
Walter Scott.
Abbotsford, 5 November 1S25.
Most noble the Marchioness of Stafford, etc. etc. etc.
339. (10) Accepting her hospitality in Loudon. 11th November 182G.
My dear Lady Staeeord, — As you have so kindly provoked a clan invasion,
and as our stay in London has been and is to be very short, we venture to offer
ourselves to your ladyships hospitality for Monday first at seven o'clock, our
party being my two daughters and Lockhavt. We regret much that an early
engagement obliges me to return home in the evening. With much respect and
a deep sence of obligation, I ever am, dear lady marchioness, your truly faithful
and obedient servant, Walter Scott.
Pall Mall 25, 11 November 1S26.
We return d from France this morning at four o'clock.
340. (11) Sending her one of .his poems. 30th June.
YoUR ladyships constant goodness emboldens to beg your acceptance of the
enclosed poem, written for a particular purpose and upon a temporary subject,
which is all I have to plead in mitigation of criticism. I beg to be most respect-
fully reruemberd to the marquis and Lord Gower, and am, with great respect,
your ladyships obliged and most respectful humble servant,
W r ALTER SCOTT.
Edinburgh, 30 June.
"I
4oAU-~ fa**-*A. ln^fuU. c^<5<- 66y£,4*z~<-<'
&<i/6>M
^KraSMt
1820.] ELIZABETH, MAIiGHIOXESS OF STAFFORD. 331
341. Elizabeth, Marchioness of Stafford, to Charles Long, Lord Farn-
liOROUGli, — proposing, on behalf of Lord Stafford, remedies to relieve the
increasing discontent in the country.
Weethill, March 3d, 1820.
My DEAR Lord Farneorougu, — Lord Stafford regretted very mucli yesterday
having been so thoroughly kidnapped during the time of your visit, and the more
so, as he would have wished for some conversation with you on the subject which
we discust a little, and which at present, and particularly from the recent addi-
tional reports he has received from the most correct and well -in formed persons
concerned in his various and extensive concerns of all kinds iu the country,
presses much upon his mind as to the necessity that government should adopt
some measures to relieve and satisfy the people, who are daily increasing in dis-
content from thfir increasing difficulties. He has lately heard so much of this
and so strongly stated, that he thinks, in fairness to the Duke of Wellington, his
sentiments ought to be represented to him, and he wishus you would in conversa-
tion take an opportunity of doing so, and of also conveying his opinion that the
remedies that can be applied cannot be brought forward too soon. He agrees
perfectly in opinion with those who would propose a property tax as the most
efficient mode of reaching not only the landed but also the funded proprietors,
and, as it would be laid on the funds in the agregate, the objection which was
formerly made of an exposure as to individual funded property would be removed,
and foreigners having money in the funds would be included. This measure,
together with the taking olT some of the less effective but troublesome and
obnoxious taxes which are expensive in collecting almost beyond the profit they
produce, would, in his opinion, be not only a most popular measure, but a
necessary one to allay the ferment which is so speedily gaining ground, and much
preferable to finance committees, or any palliative method.
He desires me to write this to you, and to request that yon will communicate
his thoughts on this subject to the Duke of Wellington, wishing well, as he does,
to his government, and being convinced, as he is, of the necessity of as speedy
relief as possible iu the present urgent moment. He would have written to you
himself, had not writing much at a time been fatiguing to him. Ever, my dear
lord F., most truely yours,
332
FAMILY A XI) DOMESTIC LETTERS.
ris2o.
312. Eluauiiii, Marchtoness of Stafford, to [Margaret Maxwell of
Munches], — thanking her for a copy of a letter by Lady Nitlisdale. 1
London, August 14th, 1820.
Dear Madam, — I received with much satisfaction from Mr. Young the valuable
mark of your kind recollection of me in the copy of Lady Nithsdale's letter, which
I am happy to possess, and fur which I beg you to accept of my best thanks.
Though I had seen part of it before, yet this copy is doubly valuable, in coming
from so authentick a source ; and the account contained in it is deeply interesting,
and will be preserved to the lasting honor of the writer, by all who have any
feeling of such an example of extraordinary ability and spirit. It is also so simply
described, and in so plain a manner, that one sees in reading it that Lady Niths-
dale was above the vanity that might have arisen from it, and only felt the satis-
faction aiising from what she had accomplished in so astonishing a manner, with
the assistance of those who partook in the interest such an undertaking must have
excited at the time. I have always felt much respect and regard for that family,
both for those I have been acquainted with belonging to it, and from the recollec-
tion of all I have heard in my youth concerning it in former times, and I partook
sincerely in the general regret that so unexpected an event as the death of Mr,
Maxwell Constable occasioned. J shall omit no opportunity of cultivating my
acquaintance with Mrs. M. Constable, and shall always feel interested in her and
her family, who, I trust, will long continue the worthy successors of that great
and important inheritance. I eould not resist copying the letter you were so good
as to send me, for Lady Surrey, to whom I have just sent it, as she will feel the
full value of it, and will, as I am, be anxious (or rather curious) to know what
sort of person Lady Nitlisdale was in appearance and manners, and any other cir-
cum-stanees respecting her and Lord Nitlisdale, but those can be only known by
tradition, as I see by the peerage he died at Rome in 1744, and she in 1749 ;
and that beside the Lord Nitlisdale, father of Lady Winifred Maxwell Constable,
they had a daughter married to Lord Bellew. I remember hearing the late Lady
Stafford talk of visiting a Lady Nitlisdale at Harrowgate, who was very deaf, and
who, I suppose, was one of the Traquair family, and who Lady Alva remembered
seeing on horseback in the fashion of the times, with a three-cornered hat and flow-
1 Original letter in Nitlisdale Collection.
1833.] SI li MICHAEL SHAW-STEWART, BAROXET. 333
ing wig, but the writer of the letter must have been almost beyond their memories.
I have hit'] a grcit disappointment in being prevented by different circumstances
from being in Scotland this year, at least I fear I shall be so, but I always enter-
tain a hope at some future time to be able to visit Dumfries on some of my
journeys there. I beg to thank you, dear madam, for your kind congratulations
on Elizabeth's marriage, and to assure you of the regard with which I remain, your
obliged and faithful servant, E. Stafford.
343. Sir Michael Shaw- Stewart, Baronet, to Elizabeth, Duchess of
Sutherland, — offering congratulations to her and the duke on their new
honour.
Ardgowan, 19 January 1833.
Duchess and Countess of Sutherland, — I have just read the Gazette of the
14th with heartfelt delight and national pi Mo, and Lady Stewart and I beg to
offer to your graee and to the Duke of Sutherland our warmest and sincerest con-
gratulations on your just elevation to the highest rank and honor the King of
England can bestow. Nothing out of my own family has ever occurred that has
given both Lady Stewart and me siueerer pleasure ; and most fervently do we
pray that the Duke and Duchess of Sutherland may long be spared to injoy all
that this world can bestow. I am so rejoiced and proud of the title you have
taken, Duchess, and every true Scotsman must feel proud that out oldest and highest
earldom, and one so interwoven with our annals, should give name and rank to a
British dukedom. You are now just where you should be, Duchess. I truly beg
your forgiveness for thus addressing you • 1 fear it is an intrusion. Eat my only
excuse is that every word I have written has come direct from the heart, and I
beg pardon for the liberty I have taken.
Everything is doing well here now. No cholera, but increasing trade, and
demand for operatives of every kind, and wages of all descriptions of trades on the
increase. It is impossible for a government to have a better start. I Lave had
to stem and resist the keenest nest of radicals in Scotland, I believe, and because
I would not stultify myself by giving a string of arbitrary pledges, I have been
opposed by some of those for whom I had laboured hard to get the new privilege.
I have carried my election by a great majority, but still at a great expense, which
is not pleasant when I am just where I was always sure of b»ing, and when the
334
FAMILY AND DOMESTIC LETTERS.
[1813.
expense I have been put to 1ms been caused by reformers and political friends
run w lI*I.
1 shall have the honor and pleasure of offering my congratulations in person
in the course of three weeks, Duches.s. I hope you and the duke got a good
passage hack, and I«ft your ancient and princely dominions in every respect as
you could desire.
Lady Stewart begs to offer her sincere respects to your grace and the Duke of
Sutherland, and I remain, Duchess and Countess, very faithfully and sincerely,
your obliged and obedient, M. SHAW-STEWART.
To her Grace the Duchess of Sutherland, Countess of Sutherland, etc., Stafford
House, London.
344. Arthur Wkfxesley, first Duke of Wellington, to George Granville,
second Duke of Sutherland, — about a picture of a Dutch town.
London, May 25, 1843.
My DEAR Duke, — I received yesterday your Grace's letter of the 23d, which
I immediately re feral to Mr. Seymour, who is so kind as to attend to my pictures ;
and he has arranged for sending to the B. Institution the picture mentioned by
your Grace, viz. — the view of a Dutch town by Yauder Heyden. — Ever, my dear
Duke, yours most faithfully,
His Grace the Duke of Sutherland, etc., K.G.
1850] CHARLES KIRKPATRICK SIIARPE. 335
345. Arthur YVellesley, first Puke of "Wellington - , to Harriet, Duchess
OF Sutherland, — regretting his inability to accept her invitation to dinner.
London, May -0, 1848.
I AM very much concerned that it will not be in my power to attend your Grace
and the Duke of Sutherland at dinner on Wednesday, as that is the day iixed on
which I am to have the direction of the Antient Concert/ and am to have the
honor of entertaining to dinner the directors of the Antient Concert. — Your
Grace's most obedient humble servant, WELLINGTON.
Her Grace the Duchess of Sutherland.
34C. Charles Kirkfatrick Siiarpe to George Granville, second Dure of
SuniERLAND, — the. signatures of Scottish ladies of rauk after marriage.
15th October [1850].
As sure as the devil looks o'er Lincoln — perhaps a little more certain — the letter
your Grace euclosed to me. is from the 1st Marchioness of H[untly].
I have compared it with my own, which you shall see when I have the honour
of meeting you.
I dou't know at what time the Scottish ladies began to retain, in writing,
their maiden names after marriage — the oldest instance I have is a resignation of
that amiable Lady of Loch 1 even, who showed such tender mercies to Mary, Queen
of Scots. Lady Huntley's sister, Lady Mar, in all her letters which I have seen,
subscribes herself Marie Steuart, and her daughter, Lady Pan mure and Marishall,
Marie Areskine. The last instance I can remember of a woman of rank using this
fashion is in Lord Dundee's marriage contract, where the bride's grandmother,
Lady Dundonald (the famous miscress), wrote — " Euphan Scot consents." This
custom, I know from many letters, was common among the gentry till Queen
Anne's reign.
This letter must have been written after Lord Hfuntly] was liberated from
1 See GrevihVs Journal of the Reign of Queen Victoria, 1S37-1So2, vol. i., second aeriea,
under 1839, p. 195.
33C
FAMILY AND DOMESTIC LETTERS.
[1850.
the castle, and allowed to reside in the Canongate — see Wood. After reading all
the proofs about the Frendraught fire in the Criminal Record here, 1 am convinced
that Lord and Lady Frendraught were perfectly guiltless. There is a picture of
her at Bogrie I should lik** to see, owing to the strange scene of the fire.
I think your Grace will scarcely be able to read this scrawl, as my hand
shakes so much to-day I am forced to hold my right wrist while I scribble. — I
am, ever your most obliged and faithful servant, C. K. Shat.PE.
Drummond Place, 15 October.
Indorsed : Note by Sir. C. Sharpe, 1S50.
LETTER OF ADVICE
SIR ROBERT GORDON.
347. Sin Robert GoedoSe hisFearweell, eonteyning eertane precepts and adwer-
tisnients to his liephue Jhon, Earle of Southerland. c. 1020.
The rysing, decay and continuance of all estates and famelies is in the hand of
the Almightie ewerliwiug God. Pie raise th and exalteth men from the werie
dust to he princes, and throwes doun principalities eweu belowe the earth, as lie
in his devryne wisdom e thinketh expedient. The experience heirof is from tyme
to tyme manifested to the wiew of the world in your house, which God hath still
preserwed from ship wrack beyond the expectation of man, not only in youi
grandfathers tyme, but in these our dares.
Fear therefore your God and serwe him truelie, for the fear of the Lord is
the beginning of wisdome. Eshew sinne, so far as humane fralitie will permit.
yow. Adwance the religion which you professe and the serwice of God, so far
as lyeth in your power, as you wold hawe a blessing from God vpon all your
aetious. Be constant aud sincere, without dissimulation in the religion that you
profe&se, aud whieh is now setled by the state of Great Britaigne. Keip Cod
spairinglie in your mouth, but aboumiantlie in your heart. Be earefull in reading
and heiring the Word of God with great attention and reference. Remember
ewer once in the four and tweutie houres, either in the night, or when yow are
at greatest quyet, to call your self to ane aecompt of all your last dayes actions,
what you hawe committed that you should not, or omitted that yee should do,
either in your Christian or worldlie calling.
Bewarre to offend your conscience with the vse of swearing or lying, suppose
but iu jest, for oithes aud lyes eome but of vse and enstome. Eshew drunkencx
2 u
338
LETTER OF ADVICE BY
[c. 1620.
abowe all things ; for swearing and clrnnkencs are two damnable and pestilent
wjces^ulhout'profeit or plea«our, and the werie spring of all other sines and
iuischeiffs ; vyccs more then bcastlie, and which do encrease vith age. Flie
lieherie as a pest, for it breedeth nipt*, adulteries and other mischeifs, which bring
a cursse to your posteiitie and a deadlie heatred among them wher you comverse,
besyds pernetuall damnation in the lyiTe to come.
Few noble men in Scotland can trie themselfs from robbing of the church in
some dcgrie, which resembleth Suianus his horse, still procuring a curse to the
possessors. Jly adwyce therfore heirin is— Giwe vnto Christ that which is his.
Ked your selfe by anv meanes of all ehurche linings, and restore vnto the church-
men that which apperteyneth them, that so all your other affaires may prosper
the better. But because these things are of dywers kynds, and that church fues
are the best holding, bearing a duetie to the church, I will speak of them
sewerallie.
First, touching the bishopes fue land?, thay are devyded among the time
countrevs, Southerland, Cathnesse and Strathnaver. You are principal! fewer of
till the bishopes lands in the dyacie of Cathnesse, and all other rights do proceid
from you. The fue lands in Cathnesse ar disponed by your predecessours, some
by excambion with warrandice, some by alienation without warrandice : Weell
faire they. But do your diligence by all meanes to get the warrandice of
Strathvlly discharged by the Earles of Cathnesse, which lands they have bound
in speciall warrandice for some of the fue lands ; els if the bishopes at any tyme
do ewict ther own lands (as it is lyklie thay will do if ewer thay hawe powar),
then will you lobe the ten dawich on the east syde of Strathvlly; except this
renunciation of some fue lands in Cathnesse, which the Earle of Cathnesse hath
now latelie made the yeir of God I m vj c and sewintein, into the bishope of Cath-
nesse his fawours, do releiwe yow. For if he hath rcnunced any lauds for the
which Strati ivlly is given in warrandice, he cannot persue yow for warrandice
hei rafter.
The fue lands of Dunnes in Strathnaver ar giwen by your predecessours to
Macky for serwice. Let him enjoy them, holden of the house of Southerland
as a fiall, with such conditions as I hawe bound him to your house, he still paying
the fue maills. But do not bind your self to warrand them nor any church land,
except from your awin deid. The fue lands in Sutherland ar not many ; yet red
your self the soonest yow can of them, and of all vthcr such warrandice as your
c. 1620.] SIR ROBERT CORDOX. 330
predecessours ar bound to for church laud : And if at any tynie yow sell or
alienat them, do not, bind your selfe to warraud them, but from your own dcid
allennarlie. Exchange them with some of your countriemen with the lands of the
earldoiae.
Now concerning teinds and wiearages, which propcrlie do belong only to the
church, I would thus adwyse yow. So long as it is permitted by the laws of the
realme that laic men should possesse teinds, so long wold I wishe yow to retaine
all taks of such teinds as yow ha we in possession, if it were but only to keip
them from others that do either enwy yow or hate yow. Willi this proviso, that
thcr be a sufficient and competent meanes provyded for the ministers at ewtrie
parish church as is alreddie done in all your countrcy. But if ther were a sctled
course taken by the State for restoring of all teinds to the church perpetuallie or
to the heritours, I wish yow not only to quyt th^m, but also to be a i'urderer of
that interprysc. Whensoever the bishoprick of Cathnesse, or the diguetics of
that Church ar walking, do your endewoir to get these places supplied by your
freinds, and such that ar worthie pteachours.
Be carefull to hawe the churches weell repaired at least within your juris-
diction ; for it is werie vnseemlie that you should build a palice for your self, and
that the house of the Lord should fall to decay and ly desolate. The churches
being once repared, be carefull to prowydc good and sufficient ministers in your
cotratrey, because God hath appoynted you aue owerseer of his wyncyeard in this
land. Do not faill to repair and decore the south ile of the churche of Dornoch,
which is the sepulture of your aneestours. Erect ther a monument and a tombe
for them and your selfe, if it be not performed to your hand, and cause paint
about the inner walls of that ile, or vpon the silerine theroft', the portratours and
pictours of all the Earles of Southcrland, with the somme of ther lyfs from the
beginning.
Assist the churchmen in all ther affairs, boith with your presence in con-
sultation, being required, and with your powar in the execution of ther sentences.
Be your selfe a paterne of pietie and wertue, that others by your exemple may
learne to do weill. For the good or bad exemple of your actions will be of great
force, and will worke stronglie with the inhabitants of your countrey. Tlier are
thrie chaplainries in this countrey given out by your predecessours, Earles of
Sutherland, to wit, Kiunald, St. John his chappell, and Golspie, besyds St. James
alter at Dornoch. St. Jhon his chappell hath bcin still your own. and is now at
340
LETTER OF ADVICE BY
[r. 1G20.
your donation; so hawe you also the right and tytle of Golspie, which two I ha we
given in your name to mmi*ter<! therby to kelp you in possession. Vow ar lyk-
wyse (to this day) patron of Saint James his alter at Dornoch ; and becaus your
forebears hawe bein dispossessed of Kinnald be the iniquitic of tyme and ther
own owersight, do your best to get the patronage and gift therof into your
hands that it may be at your donation. Not that you should reape any com-
rnoditie therby, but becaus it is a seemlie thing to hawe some benefices at a noble
mans gift, that he may therby pleasour sneh of the churchmen as he thinks
worthie. This yee may bring to passe by wertue of your new infeftment, by the
which the patronage of your ehaplainries ar ratified to yow ; and cause the present
incumbent or possessour to take the same hoMen of yow, that therby in progres.se
of tyme it may be thought hidden of your self by wertue of your infuftment.
This far toucbeing church affaires.
Execute justice duely without exception of persones or any other circum-
stance whatsoever. Justice should be blind anil freindlesse. It is not ther yee
should reward your freinds, or sink to crosse your enemies. Still embrace the
quarell of the poore and distressed as your own particular, thinking it your greatest
honour to repair the wrongs of the oppressed. lie a father and a protectour of
the fatherlessc and widowes, so shall yow procure your self a blissing from the
heawins. Abowe all things exact no penulties nor vnlawcs with rigour, if it be
not for the secound or thrid f;dt. Enrich not your self by exactions vpon your
countreymen, for ther still folowes a coursse thervpon, and God heirs the clamour
of the poore oppressed.
Eshew that damnable wyce of awarice, which bringeth ewer with it heatred,
extortiou and oppression. Prease by all rneanes to be accompted liberal], for ane
awaritious man was newer a good commander. Flie also prodigalitie, for it is the
other extreraitie, and makes your self in end to be beholding to others. Giwe
lytle or nothing by intercession or other mens procurement, tor so shall yow loise
boith your thankes and your goods. Whatsoever you do bestowe vpon any man,
give it out of your owne hand, or declare it your self to the partie by word of
mouth. Choose rather to seim to be liberall, then to be so in effect. Let no man
part discontented from yow, if yow can possiblie ; and when yow do refuse any-
thing let another report your denyall. Give cbeiflie and do good to the godlie,
and yow shall find a recompenee ; if not from him, yet from the Most High.
Bewarre what yow do promise ; but what yow promeis by word of mouth, let
c. 1020.] SIR ROBERT GORDOX. 3-U
it be als sure as your handwryt. Keip preeeislie your word and promeis vnto all
rneu, iallio to your hull. Strywe with all your nyghbours in courtesie and thank-
fulnes j and with all men be plain and vpright. Tins wertue all your predeces-
sors hawe hade, wherby ther word was trusted before anothers wryt.
If any servants hawe liein rewarded by your father or grandfather for loosing
of their blood or for hazarding ther lyffs in ther service, yow shall rather augment
then deininishe ther pensions ami rewards, which shall encourage others in tymc
coining to hazard themselfs, ther furtones and ther deevest blood in your service.
Bestowe your gifts rather fur desert then for favour. Keip a wryten scrolle of all
your servants and folowevs, and still reward them by turnes. If yow please to
gratifie some whom yow loue most intirely, do it secretlie ; so shall they escape
enwy, and yow shall be the more bclowed. Howard yutir servants bountifullie,
when they hawe serwed yow trulie.
Keip rather too few then too many servants. Pay them weell what yow pro-
meis ; so may yow laughfullie demand serwiee at ther hands, and boldlie exact it.
Preferre especialie to your service such as fear God and hawe truelie serwed your
father and forbears, cheiflie if they be able for it ; if not, employ ther posteritie
before others, as kyndliest ; so shall yow not only be best served, but farther,
yow shall shew a thankfull memorie of your father, and procure the blissing of
these old servants, in not missing ther old maisters in yow. Ou the other part
care not much for ther service that were not trustie to your forbears. For how
can thay be true to the sone that were false to the father. Bewarre to take ser-
vants preferred by other men to serwe yow, for they will not choose such as ar
meetest fur your service, but whom they think mcetcst to serve ther own turne
about yow. Choose therefore your servants for your owne vse, and not for the
vse of others.
Ther is no power on earth more just then that of the father or parent ower
the sone, nor any service more honest and due then that of the sone to the parent.
Honour therefore your parents ; and as yow wold hawe. God to prosper yow and
your affaires, endewoir to obteyne your parents blissing. Be lowing vnto your
parents that brought yow vnto the world. Be thankfull to those that hawe bred
yow, for they ar your seeound pareuts, and althoeht boith your father and your
mother be dead, yet I thiuk it not amisse to insert heirin this precept anent
parents. Let ewerie man, therefore, honour and reverence ther father and ther
mother, as they would hawe ther children to vse them afterward. Let not ther
342 LETTER OF ADVICE BY [c, 1620.
first warre be vpon titer mother, as too many do in this land. why should they
iuvcii the oiJc; of natur! if it were for i<o more, they should honour tlier
parents for the lenthning of ther owne da}-es. Honour yow also them that be
(loco parcntum) to yow, such as be your govcrnours, tutours and vpbringcrs. Be
thankful! to them and reward them for ther paines and caire, which they ha we
hade of yow and your affaires when yow were vnable yourself to do it. Be never
ingrate or vuthankfull to any man that hnth done yow pleasour, or that hath
shewin your freinds any favour for your caus. Prease to acquyt it as occasion
offeres. Ther cannot be a worsse thing on earth then ane vngrate and vn thank-
full mynd, which yow shall eshew as the plange.
Now toucheing your mariage, which is the greatest cursse or blisse that can
happin yow r in this world j and the greatest earthlie felicitie or rniserie that can
come to a man, according as it pleaseth God to blisse or cursse the same, I
adwyse yow to do nothing rashlie therin ; for it is in the chose of a wyffe as in a
project of warre, wherin to erre but once is to be vndone for ever. Consult
therforc hoirin with your grawest and wisest freinds ; but seeing the matter
concernes yow neerest, ha we the cheifest woice therin your self. Matrimonie is
a matter of great importance which you cannot shake of everie clay as yow list.
It cannot be disolued but be one of your deaths. It is commanded by God
therby to eschew all siunfull lust, for procreation of children, and that man should
hawe a wyffe for his helper ; these be the cheiffe causes of mariage ; as for
beautie, riches and allyance, these be but accessorie causes.
As yow wishe to hawe a blissing in your mariage, yow must keip your bodie
cleane and vnpolluted vutill yow giwe it to your wyffe; and after mariage keip
inviolablie your promeis made to God in your mariage, abstaining from the
filthie wyce of adulttrie, els yow shall expect a cursse to your posteritie. Lewarre
where you settle your loue, for the first impression workctli most in the heart of
man. Place not, therefore, your affection but vpon good consideration, for beeing
once setled, yow can hardlie recall it againe. Take heid abone all things that
ther be a reciprocall affection betuix you and the partie whom yow do marie.
Let your loue be wholie knit to hir, and all hir affections loueinglie bent to folow
your will. How many tragedies do wee daylie sie and heir to proceid from
enforced mariage. Loue therfore your wyfe as your own self; cheerish hir as
your helper. It is your office to command, and hirs to obey. De never both
angrie at one tyme ; for when yee are both settled, ye are meitest to judge of
1620.]
SIR ROBERT GORDON.
343
erryurs. Deferr not to marie till your age, for it is ordained for quenching tbe
lust of your vjuth, M .rh? v.ri n woman vnnhle either through age, nature or
accident for procreation of children ; neither marie one of knowne evill conditions
or vitious education, for the woman is ordained to be a helper, not a hiuderer to
man. Marie one that is fullie of your owue religion ; for disagriement in religion
bringeth ever with it disagreement in manners, dissention among your famelie,
and a perrell of the education of your children. 1 1 awe a special care to choose
your wyfe of a whole and cleane race, not subject to hereditarie seiknesses.
Examine weell your wyfs education and the report of hir honestie before you
marie; and cheitlie that shee hath not settled hir affection els-wher. Bat being
niaried, let never the rage of jealousie enter into your harte. Let hir be the
doughter of a ehast aud wertneouse mother, and enquyr diligently how hir
parents hawe bein affected in ther youth. Let her be eomelie, werteous, sober,
fit to bear child reti, for a werteouse wyff will help you soone to riches, and aiie
vnthriftie wyff will soone consume both your wealth and hir owne. Considder
your owne estate, which if you finde weell settled and good, match neir home,
and with deliberation ; but if othenvayes crasie and rented, then match farr off,
and with quick expedition. Make not choise of a dwarf!* or foole to be your
wyffe, for from the one you may beget a race of pigmeis, and the other will be
your daylie greiff and wexation ; for it will irk yow so oft as you shall heir hir
talk, and you shall find continuallie to your sorrow that ther is nothing so fulsome
as a shee foole. I do not lyke the humour of our noble men in Scotland, who do
scorne to match with the barones and gentilitie, and do marie ther own eqnalls
.for the most parte. I coufesse it is best to match with the nobilitie, if you can
find contentment and riches correspondent thcrvnto. Yet do not you spair to .
marie a laird or barrone his doughter, of a good stock and well descended,
prowyding shee lyke you weell, and that shee be wealthie. You hawe freindship
anough alreddie, if you keip it; and it is not the wyffe that nobilitats the
husband, but the husband nobilitats the wyffe.
Let hir not be poor, how noble and generous soever ; for generositie without
hir support is but a fair shell without a kernell, beeaus a man can buy nothing in
the markett without money. Let hir be eomelie, not careing for hir extraordiuarie
beantie; and as it is the safest walking between too extreams, so choose not a
wyffe of such absolute perfection and beantie that everie carnell eye shal bespeak
yow injurie ; neither so base and deformed that may breid contempt in others,
344
LETTER OF ADVICE BY
[c. 1620.
and bring you to a loathed bed. This far concerning your manage. Xow
parti cularlie to adwyse you touclieing a manage with the house of Cathnesse, I am
not much against it; yea, I would rather adwyse yow to do it, if the parties lyke
one another; for out of all question, that ancient hereditaria heatred long rooted
betuix your two faraclies cannot he intirly taken away, nor heartelie reconciled
without manage : which if it happou somtyme to be celebrated and concluded, I
adwyse yow to get the warrandice of the bishopes lauds in Cathnesse discharged,
wherby yow may frie Strathvlly, and lykwyse get the Earle of Cathnesse bound
that he shall newer oppose to the reduction of the decreit obtained against your
inf».-ftment, if this decreit be not reduced before.
Be carefull of the werteous education of your children. Cause them to be
bred vp in learning and wertue. Learning is the best portion yow can giwe
them, for how many meane gentlemen do wee perceawe daylie to aryse by
learning. JMusick is a fit exercise for any gentleman wherin lykwyse yow shall
cause instruct them. If yow hawe two or thrie sones, make one of them a
courtiour after his trawells abrotl in other countreys. Let him be bred in
England; for it is requisite that some of our nobilitie be about ther prince.
Lut abowe all things, make him the courteour whose inclination yow sie most
bant to it, and whose eomelines of persone and reddines of witt yow shall think
fittest for that calling.
Bring vp your children in obedience, yet without too much austeritie. Praise
them opinly, reprehend them secretlie. Give them good countenance and
conwenient maintenance according to your abilitie; for otherways your lyff will
seeme ther bondage, and then yow shall be censured as one of those that deferre
all good to ther end ; so that portion yow shall leawe them they may thank death
for it and not yow. Marie your daughters betymes least they marie them
selfs. Strywe not mueh to marie your daughters with the greatest nobilitie.
But abowe all things marie them to men that hawe weell to mainteyne them,
althogh they be but gentlemen ; for if they be maried to your equalls, these noble
men will expect that yow will follow them, and make ther benefite of your
allyance; but if yow marie your daughters to men of lower degrie then your self,
yow shall be sure they and ther issue wilbe folowers of yow and your house.
Suffer not your sones willinglie to passe the Alpes, for they shall exchange for
their forraine travell (vnlesse they goe the better fortefied) but others wyces for
ther ow r ne wertues, pryde, blasphemie and atheisme, for humilitie, revereuce and
c. 1620.] SIR ROBERT GORDOX. 345
religion. And if by chance, out of a more wary Industrie, they atteyne to any
broke" bnga^e*!, they will profit n them no more then to hawe one meat served in
dywers dishes: and if they will neids travel 1 into Italie, be sure to send a good
conductouT with them.
Nov/ toucheing the governement of your house, let your hospitalitie be
moderat, equaled to the measure of your estate, rather bouutifull then nigardlie, yet
not prodigall nor ower eostlie. For ahliogh some, who hawing otherwyse con-
sumed themselfs and ther richer with secret wyees, hawe endewored to colour ther
ryots vpon this werfcue, yet iu my observation I hawe not hard nor knowen any
man growe poore by keiping ane ordinarie, decent and thriftie table.
Banishe drunkennes out of your house aud count rev, and affect him not that
is affected thervnto, for it is a wyce that impaires health, consumes wealth, and
transformes a man into a beast, a shine of no single ranke, that never walks vn-
attended with a traino of misdemeanours at the hoeles. Besyds, for the credite
therof, to induce a man, I newer hard other commendation ascrywed to a drunkard
more then the weell-bearing of his drink, which is a commeudation fitter for a
brewer's horse then either for gentlemen or serwitigmen.
Beware thou spend not a bo we 3 of the 1 parts of thy revenue, nor abowe one
thrid part therof in your house ; for the other two parts will but defray extra-
ordinaries, which will alwayes surmount your ordinaries by much : otherways
yow shall leive lyke a rich begger in eonthiuall wants ; and the neidie man can
never liwe happelie nor contented, being broken and distracted with worldlie
cares. For then ewerie least disaster makes him reddie to wedsett or sell ; and
that gentleman who sels ane acre of land, luoseth ane vnce of credit, for gen-
tilitie is nothing but ancient riches, so that if the foundation do sink, the building
must needs consecmentlie fall. And assure your selfe, if yow hawe not wherwith
to do your owne bussines without the employment of others, yow will be the lesse
accompted off.
Eshew prodigalitie as I noted befoir. Be frugall in spending what God sendeth
yow ; but spair no charges when a mater coneernes your honour or credit. Give
your residence shall happen to be at home in Sutherland, reserwe still some pos-
sessions and roomes in your owne hands to be laboured. It will both keip your
serwants some tymes in exercise and your selfe from being beholdeu to others for
everie small mater which belongeth to house keiping ; or els you must buy it with
your money, and he that must put his hand to his purse for ewerie expence of
2 x
346
LETTER OF ADVICE BY
[c. 1C20.
houshold, shall als hardlie ktip money therin .is it is for one to keip water in a
si we. To iLinctliu this also, buy still your provision at the best seasone and
easiest rate, for sometyme yow shall find it twyse as deir between bying at your
neid and wli^n the seasone most fitly may furnish yow. Faill not lykwyse to
keip the most pairt of your best girsings in your owne hands, for it will yeild yow
great profeit for your houskeiping. Freasse to make the greatest profeit yow can
of all your girsings and heeland roomes ; which commoditie your predecessours
liawe carelesslie neglected. It will bring yow great profeit with small charges.
Havre still heards of cattle and horse of your owne in ewerie corner of the countrey,
which will bring yow no small profeit.
Let your kinred and allyes bee welcome always to your table ; grace them
with your countenance, and ewer further them in all ther honest actions by word,
liberalitie or Industrie ; for by that meanes yow shall double the bond of nature.
Be a neighbour to tlicr good, as weill as to ther blood ; by which reasonable
deservings yow shall find them so many advocats to plead aue apologie for yow
behind your back, and so many witnesses of your wertues, whensoewer others
shall seik to deprawe yow. If ther be any neir kinsmen or cousins of yours,
laughfully descended latelie of your house, give them honest maintenance ; for if
they lacke of ther owne and be constrained to beg, it shall be a reproche to yow.
Shake off the glow-wormes, I meane parasites and sycophants who will feid and
fawne ou yow in the summer of your prosperitie, but in any adwerse storme they
will shelter yow no more then a cloake of tafia ty — a dangerous kynd of people —
and therfore I beseek yow beware of them.
If at any tyme yow be able to purchase any lands, buy first all such lands as
any other surname but Gordone dothe possesse in Sutherland, prowyding they be
not church lands. Nixt thervnto buy from the Munrois the lands of Slishechiles,
becaus they are of the earledome of Southerland. Nixt thervnto mak your pur-
chase in Rosse, Cathnesse, Strathnaver or Murray. Whatsoever yow purchase
in Southerland or Strathnaver, let it still be for your eldest sone, becaus that
Sutherland is lytle anugh to manteyne the qualitie of ane earle. "Whatsoever
yow purchase for the rest of your children let it be in other shy res then Suther-
kiud, and let them hold the most pairt of ther lands of the eldest, wherby they
may acknowledge them selfs descended of that house.
If yow shall happen to buy or purchase any lands in Strathnawer, vse kyndlie
the natiues yow rind vpon the land, that therby yow may purchase ther lowe, and
1620.1 Sin nOBERT GORDOX. 347
alienat ther mynds from Macky. And he not too hard-handed to them at first,
for by <l ]j uc uLiiva and liUralitie yow ma> gain them, which is the nature of all
hylaudcrs. Yet by progress of tyine I wishe yow to send some of your owiie
people to dwell amongst them.
If any other then your self or the suceeiding Earles of Sutherland do happen to
buy the lands of Skelbo, Pronsie, Kinnald, Drummwy, or any other lands that
holds ward and releif of your self, then tak head that yow do not change the
nature of the holding, yea, although it were to your owne brother, or to your
secound sonc, but lot these lands be still holden ward. Neither yet change them
into task ward. I bought and purchased the lands of Golspitour and Bakies. I
was forced to buy Golspietour to put ane enemie to the doorr. I was compelled
to take the Backies for debts owcing me. So I hawe sold them to your lordship
as I bought them as fitter for yow then for me. "When your anuels ar payed,
reliwe your wedsets, and cheiilic the wedsets of Strat'ufleit, for the lands that
Walter Innes of Auchintoulle lies sold to the Gordones in Strathfleit, ar redimable
to yow for a thousand marks the dawigh. liedcim also Strathvllie, for yow shall
find that profitable for yow.
Let the first lands yow shall buy in Sutherland be either Pulrossie and
Speinzedell, or Skelbo, Pronsics, Drummoy or Clj ne. When yow find the tyme
fit (and cheiSie before the ycir of God I m vj c thretty yeirs) yow shall intend
action against Pulrossie, by wertue of a right of his lands, which right lyes among
the rest of your wrytts. For doubtlessc the lands of Pulrossie should hold of
yow as the rest of the earldomc of Sutherland dothe; but it hath bein exeimed
by some slight eonweyance, and by the negligence of your predecessours.
Sicklyk whatsoever yow think to mak eleame to hearafter as wniquhyle apper-
teyning to your predecessours, Earles of Sutherland, yow shall eleame the same
before the yeir of God l m vj c thretty yeirs, if 1 do not the same during the tyme
of my governement in this eountrey.
Iff at any tyme yow be able to buy any lands out of Sutherland for your
eldest sone, then buy some resting place to him about Edinbrugh, wher he may
dwell and remain when any occasion drawes him south, either for himselfe or
his freinds.
Now to adwyse yow what course yow shall vse with your nixt neighbours, it
is hard, for it is comunly sein that wher thcr is necrest vieinitie, ther is farthest
distance of harts. Neir nyghbours ar seldome frie from jarres and quarralls.
34S
LETTER OF ADVICE BY
\c. 1620.
My opinion thcrfure shall be thus : — To begin with Assint, it hath ewer depended
vpon your house; kelp the Laird uf Assint still your freind. And albeit we
hawe some nfnnitie with that countrcy at this tyrae, yet it will wear out, and
perhaps a st richer and greater conjunction with that cuuntrey may yet folowe.
Therfore loise them not but in ther own defalt, and if they hawe any bussines
at lawe assist them freind He. The lykc I wish yow to do with all the Icelanders
that hawe depended vpon your predecessours, both in the iles and elswher.
Concerning the Laird uf Pnffus, he is your countreyman and wassell as Macky
i>, thogh he he setled in another couatrey- yet he hath a good token from your
predecessours, though these many ages he hath al waves inclyncd to the Earle of
Cathnesse rather then to your forbears. Newevth-eles strywe to keip him as I
hawe endewoired to do, though aganst the opinion of your best freinds. T} T mes
may change, and one may come who will follow you and your house intirelie.
Dat ho\vsoe\er, whither he be weill or ill or indifferentlie affected to yow, I do
e-pecially adwysc yow newer to change the nature of his holding from ward,
because if once yow vnty that knot, he may misknowe yow and breid factions in
your contrey agaust yow, which will trouble you more then yow ar awar off.
FUit if many of your countreymen will joyne togidder and buy his lands in
Sutherland, which I know his predecessours were ewer willing to do, then yow
might change the ward into a ycirlie fue rent to elywers men, which is daugerous
to do to one.
Be ewer circumspect and attentive to hearken what courses the house of
Cathnesse taketh. For, though it be lyklie that by progresse of tyme yow may
be good freinds by interchange of manage, yet they will still strywe to be your
eqtiall, beeiiig so near nyghbours. C&sarve priorem, Pompeiusve parem ferre
nequit. And although all things do seim now to be setled and agreed betuix
your two houses, yet a lytle mater will kendle a hid spark of malice bred and
rooted of long in boith your harts. The place in Parliament (which hitherto
seemed to breid all jarrcs among yow) is now out of question, yow being so many
degries ranked before him. And although wee should rather strywe to be
citizens in heaviii then for precedence on earth, yet my adwyse to yow is, to
seik your due, and that ranck whervnto God hath called yow. And if it shall
please God to call me vnto himself before I can hawe the commoditie and
occasione to question your place with these few earles of this kiugdome that ar
now wrongfullie ranched before yow, then yow shall sutc for your owne due, I
1620.]
SIR ROBERT GORDOX. 349
can sie no reasone either by antiquitie or by ewidents why yow should not hawe
the first ]>bcc from all the cui'l-s of Scotland, yea, from the Earle of Angus him-
selfe, for anything I hawe yet sein. All the instructions concerning your prioritie
I hawe seperated°from the rest of your wryts, and placed them in a bouudle by
them selfri in your chartour ehist in Kildrininiie.
The nixt thing which bred stryff betuixt your house and Cathnesse was the
Earle of Cathnesse his alledged justiciurie within Sutherland and Strathnawer,
whieli now also is of late by them renunced in your fawours. Yet one thing 1
hawe to adwyse you theranent, that yow tak special] head whensoever anie earle
of Cathncsse doth enter either by service or by resignation in the kings hands
for a new iufeftment, that yow take head (I say) lea.t he slip in quyetlie into
his infeftment the justiciary? and shirrefahip of Sutherland and Strathnawer with
the rest of the priweledges of his iufeftment, long ago renunced by this Earle of
Cathuesse, which, if he do, yow shall either cause stay the service, or cause stay
the infeftment at the seales if yow hawe so much fawuur among the officers of
estate; or els presentlie cause intend a reduction therof as a mater which his
predecessors hawe before discharged by contract to the Earles of Sutherland, the
yeir of God I m vj c sexteine yeirs, which contract was registrat at Edinbrugh
shortlie after.
Hawe ewer some trustie secret freind both in Cathnesse and Strathnaver,
whom yow shall enteiteyue as your secreit pensioner, that lie may still adwerteis
yow of all things either spoken or dewysed aganst yow or yours. Do not
harbour such as shall flie for succour and refuge to yow from Cathnesse and
Strathnaver, except ther fathers or theniselfs hawe beiu borne natiwe Sutherland
men, for it is a small condition which ther owne lords will offer them, but they
will 'presentlie forsaik yow and returne home again e ; vnles they do commit such
a fact as doth exclude all hoip of retrait, m that eaice yow shall receave them.
Do your endewoir to be ewer suir of the Clan Gun, for since memorie of man
they newer harmed the house of Sutherland, but hawe alwayes folowed the same
whersoewer they did dwell. If they be yours yow may cair the lesse either
for Cathnesse or Strathnaver, by way of deid.
The nixt thing I do recommend vnto yow is this, that if the decreit obteyned
by the Earle of Cathnesse aganst your infeftment of regalitie be not reduced by
me or your vncle, Sir Alexander, before your majoritie, that yow extend all your
moyen and meanes at court and session to reduce the samen, seeing Cathnesse
350
LETTER OF ADVICE BY
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hath bound himself by wryt newer to oppose to that reduction ; for by this infeft-
menfc Etratlmawer is annexed to the eariedonie of Sutherland.
Mak all diligence to settle and establish your shirrefship of Sutherland and
Strathuaver, if I do it not to your hand, and cause distinguishe the same from the
shirrefdome of Inwernesse, making your owne accompts to the exchecker. And if
at anie tyme your prince be earnest to hawe your shirrefship, let him hawe it for
payment, provyding that his majestie will be pleaded to settle your regalitie; els
not. For seing all Sutherland (for the most pairt) doth hold of yow and your
regalitif 1 , yow neid not care much for the shirrefship. But dispone not to his
majestie the shirrefship of Strathuaver without Macky his owne consent seeing
yow ar bound to warrand the same vnto him. When yow hawe soiled your
shirrefship yow shall prease by all meanes to annex Slishechiles thervnto, by
ewicting the same from the Marquis of Huntley; seeing it is a pairt of the earle-
donie of Sutherland, and paves boith teind and wicarage to the parochin of
Creich ; which yow may prowe by the Earle of llosse his infeftment of the lands
of Ferrincoskerie. Prease first to obtein from Huntley the heritable gift of the
shirrefship of the ten dawighes land of the east syde of Strathvlly, which is ex-
cepted in the first gift which the Earle of Huntley gawe your grandfather ; and
when yow hawe obteincd that, then intend action against Slishechiles.
Ther is ane heritable gift of the admiralitie of the dyacie of Cathnesse granted
by my persnasion to my lord, your father, by Lodowick, Duik of Lennox, beeing
ahvayes countable therfoir to the duik and his heyres. I will (God willing) try if
I can get the clause (of being countable) exchanged in a yeirlie dewtie ; and if I
•cannot prewaill, let it be the first request yow shall make to the duik or his suc-
cessours, wherby this may be a memorie to posteritie that yow ar descended of
his house.
Meynteyn good correspondence with your nighbours in Rosse, such as the
Frasers, Monroes and Rosses, cheiflie with the Monroes, who hawe bein still
favourers of your house. As for Clancheinzie who (thoghthay were your forbears
dependers and baillics in Rosse, as appears by there band of serwice giwen to your
great grandfather, Earle John) now aspyring to be high, will strywe to vndermyne
yow, and take all dependance and freindship from yow. Keip fair with them,
and stick yow fast to the Frasers and Monroes. The Rosses ar still vnconstant.
Do yow strywe to keip the house of Inwercharran be the hand if yow can ; for
thay ar the best manred of that name.
1620.] SIR ROBERT GORDOX. 351
Eutertayne freindship and amitie with Macdonald of Sleat, for thcr hath bein
ancient kyn.ir.es r\vA allyanec betuix your famclies, and thay hawe ewer obscrwed
a true part to the house of Sutherland, which yow shall strywe to continue : and
though of late thay hawe contracted allyance with the house [of] Kintayle, yet
they will preferr yow if yow descrwe it.
Be ane eneruie to these idle robbers that liwe by stealing of horse and cattle,
which sin is too ryff in this dyacic, wherby the poore labourers are oppressed.
Keip good correspoudencie with your nighbours to punishe such offenders, and
when they com vnto your hands, giwe them the tryall of ane assyse. Let them
not escape at any man's request, els yow shall be suir to be the first man aganst
whom they shall offend in that kynd.
Keep a stedfast and perpetuall ainetie with the house of blacky. Vsc Macky
rather as your wassell then as your companion ; and because they ar vstiallie
proud and arrogant, let them knowe that yow ar their superiour. Let Macky his
pmcell newer be displayed wher yours is, whither yow be pcrsonallie present or
some other hawing your place j let him hawe his pmcell folded vp when yours
is displayed. Suffer not any clan or famelie in Sutherland to be so bold as to
make particular contentions and meltings of ther own for any cause whatsoever
without your speciall attollerance and command.
Ther be two cheif things that ar lyklie to breed discord betuix yow aud
Macky which yow shall endewoir in all heast to rcmedie, if it be not done before
your maioritie. The one is, your merches ; the other is, the warrandice of Strath-
naver, whervnto your father did tye himselfe in the infeftment granted by him
to Macky, the yeir l m vj c sex yeirs. I doubt not but .Macky by wertue of this
warrandice will prease to deprywe yow (if he can) of the supcrioritie of Strath -
nawer, that he may hold of the king ; which to rcmeid yow shall vrge the minute
of Achindorc, passed betuix your father (Earle Jliou) and JIacky, the yeir of
God I m vj c threttein yeirs. This miuute lyes iu the hands of Arthour, Lord
Forbes. It will compcll Macky to renunce the warrandice, if he refuse to do it
willinglie ; which if he do not, then do yow remove him from the lands of Dunnes,
wherof he hes no right as yet, but a lytle ticket of your fathers subscrywed by
him vpon his death bed, whill will not awaill much by lawe. I suspect that the
Lord Forbes lost this minute. Prease to keip Macky himself rather then his
countreymen ; if yow hawe Macky yow shall hawe them ; if yow want him,
they can lytle profeit yow. The contrarie heirof yow shall ohserwe with Cath-
352 LETTER OF ADVICE BY [c. 1G20.
nesse. If yow may purchaise the lowe of the inhabitants of that countrey, yow
shall cair the lesse for the earle* fRindship or fawour.
The cheifest mcrches in controversie betuix yow ar in the Dirienioir, merch-
ing "with the bounds of Lairg and Cinenesse on the one syde and Dunnes on the
other. And albeit Macky hath gotten ane infeftment of the whole Dirienioir
from your predecessours, yet fail I yow not to cause keip preceislie the old merches
betuix Sutherland and Strathnawer in that end of the countrey, which is Knoknn-
challegh, Aldnalbanegh and Correchrotter and liinbisdell at the other syde of the
countrey ; as I ha we of late obteyned from Macky by ane arbitral! decreit, the
yeirs of God I m vj c scwintein and l m vj e aughtein yeirs.
Yow shall vse all meanes possible to preserwe still your old merches in ewerie
corner of the countrey, not onlie with the nighbouring provinces, but also within
this countrey betuix yow and your wassals ; and cause your tenuants lying nixt
ailiacent to your borders to eat the girse and pasture ycirlie without faill, as far
as your merches can retche. And faill not to place the trustiest men yow hawe,
and in whom yow confide most, vpon the borders of your countrey. Be diligent
also to settle all your merches and the bounds of your lands, either with the
neighbouring shyres or within the countrey, that so your countrey men, knowing
what is ther own and what is yours, they may bewar to encroch vpon your pro-
pertie, which is a dangerous mater for them, if they did considder the same
right! ie.
Ther is ane other mater which may breid a jane betuix yow and Macky,
depending of the forenamed warrandice, which is this —
Houcheon Macky of Farr haid a daughter by his first wyfTe, the Earle of
Cathnesse daughter. Houcheon maried also Jeane Gordone, daughter to Alex-
ander, Earle of Sutherland, by whom he haid Sir Donald Macky. Houcheon
having serwed himself heyre to his father, Iy Macky, by a precept of clare
constat giwen him by Alexander, Earle of Sutherland, to that effect, he resigned
Strathnawer into his superiour, Earle Alexander his hands, for a new infeftment
to himself and to his soue, Sir Donald. This new infeftment was giwen by Earle
Alexauder without warrandice. Your father, Earle Jhon, renues this infeftment
to Houcheon Macky and to his sone, Sir Donald, with warrandice, wherthrow
proceids all this controversie. The questiou is — Whither Houcheon Macky was
infeft in the lands of Strathnawer before he did renunce the samo in his
superiours hands. If he was infeft or serwed heyre to his predecessours (as 1 am
c. IG20.] SIR ROBERT GORDOX.
assured he was) yow ar Eaif anugh; and this yow may knowe by Hendrie Fermer
his prodigall [protocol], which is among your fathers wryts. If Houcheon Macky
was not infeft, or that his seising cannot be found, then yow ar in danger, thus: —
The laughfull heyres of Iy Macky (father to Houcheon) may serve them selfs
heyres vnto the said Iy, whcrby they may ewict the lands of Strathnawer from
the heyres of Sir Donald, who may returne back vpon yow for warrandice; and
Sir Donald his heyres agreing with the heyres of Iy Maeky, may so cause yow
renunce the superioritie of these lands, for to be red of the warrandice. I can
perceawe no remedie to prewent this, but either to defend yourself with the
minute of Achiudore (if it can be found) aganst the heyres of Sir Donald, or
els to reduce Sir Donald his last infeftraenfc granted by your father; which maybe
reduced, because (as I think) his seasing and his infeftment do not aggrie. For
his seasing is vnited and taken in one place, which vuiou is not in the infeft-
ment. If this cannot help yow, then yow must aggrie for some composition of
money with the heyres of Iy Macky if they do appcare; which I wishe yow
rather to do th^n to renunce the superioritie of Strathnawer. The heyre of Iy
Macky is either Christian Maek} r , daughter to the said Uoucheon by the Earle of
Cathnesse daughter, which Christian dyed without children ; or els the heyres
of Angus Macky, the grandfather (or the great grandfather) of the said Iy
Macky, who can hardlie be found out; and though they were found, ther claine
(I hope) is now lost by prescription. Sir Donald Macky hath neither serwed
nor doth not intend to serwe himself heyre to his father or grandfather.
Ther is ane other remeid whieh yow may vse to frie your self from Macky
his warrandice, and this is it. Bishope Keid of Orknay obteyned a gift of Strath-
nawer before the Earle of Huntley by reason of Donald Maeky his bastardrie,
whieh gift of Huntleys is the ground of Iy Maeky his eleame. This former right
was bought .by your father from Bishcpe Keids heyrs, and the gift was taken in
my name. Keip this right quyet vntill yow do sie yourself straited by the other,
and then defend your self therby as yow can. If ther be anydefect in Bishope
Reid his right be lawe, preasse to amend it before yow hawe to do therwith.
But I hope (God willing) to end these eontrowersies with Maeky if I can
possible.
Ane other thing I adwyse yow to do with Maeky, that is, to cause him
compeir personallie at all your courts either in Southerland or Strathnawer, as he
is bound by his contracts and infeftments.
2 Y
354 LETTER OF ADVICE BY [c. 1620.
Let 110 man tyrranise ower your tennents, yea, not your owne brother.
Do your h'-'.^t- to gvt all the coa?t syds of .^Sutherland into your o^ne hands
from the Craigbeg to the Ord, and plant it all with tennents ntfc for service.
Let the gentlemen or such as think them selfs vnfit to serwe, be remowed to the
height of the euuntrey, And because your ablest tennants ar still most employed
in all expeditions, give vnto your ablest and prettiest men the best and schapest
lands to liwe vpon.
One thiug I would wish yow to do, which is, that vow never height nor
augment the rentall of your land, and eheiflie your teind ; wherin your pre-
decessours hawe beiu sumwhat carelesse, first, in raking ther lands to greater
dewties then they were able to bear, which makes your tennants poor ami
miserable. How can they pay the dewtie when the ground will not yield it ] A
poore tennant maks a poore mai.-ter, and a rich tennant a rich maister. The nixt
tiling your forebears faiiled in of this kynl was the racking vp of ther teiuds
from a silver dewtie to wictuall ; for that serwes onlie to profeit the persone or
patrone of your ttinds, which are vncertaue. "Whatewer augmentation the land
is abla to pay, let it bu called stock.
Let ther be still a strict freindsehip and inwiolable vnion bet nix yowand your
surname, and muttnllie among them selfs, otherways it may vndo vow all. For
your surname is enwyed in this dyacie for ther greatnes and prosperitie, which
(doubtlesse) will encrease so long as yow serwe God truelie. And if they be wise
they will eudewoir with all ther might to vphold your house, without the which
they ar but a handful!, exposed to the hatred and rage of there nigbbours. Heat
that man as the pest who would preasse to sowe dissention betuix yow and your
brethren, for by discord great things do perishe, and by concord small things do
become great. Your famelie had ewer that good propertie to keip a perpetuall
lowe and freiudship among themselfs.
Do nothing of consequence without the advyse and eounsell of your speeiall
freinds. Hawe a certane number both of the wealthiest, and wysest among them
to consult with when any important bussines oeeurres. But first take ther
oathes to be secreit. If yow hear that any of them doth reveall your eounsells,
first try the matter weill before yow shew your self jealous of your freinds
honestie, then after tryell and good advysemeut debar him both from your
favour and secreit affaires, and do your best to lat him feill that he hath done
-yow wrong.
c 1620.] SIX ROBERT GORDQX. 355
Before yow enter in freindship with a stranger considder of it; after freindship
trust. Tiy long before )ow admit any to be your intire freind (1 do not meane
ewerie comune acquantance) ; but once being admitted, intertayne him in your
heart ; talk with him as with your selfe ; leawe him not when he is in adver-
sitie, or wlien fortune hath forsaken him. If he do forsake yow in any strait
then shall yow know that he is not a pcrfeyt frcind.
A freind can not be knowen in prosperitie, and ane enemie can not be hidden
in adversitie. Bi not sudden to contract freindship, but vpon good tryall of the
pairties natur and inclination; hawing once ingadged yourselfe in the bonds of
ametie, be slowe to dissolwc the same. Change not a freind for any good,
neither a faith full brother for the best gold ; and forsake not the old freind for
the new, saith the wyse man.
If yow can compasse it, insinuat your self still in fawour with some such
favourit as is in greatest credit at court for the tyine. Trouble him not for
triffles. Complement with him as often as yow can find occasion. Present him
with many yet small gifts and of lytic charge ; and if yow hawe cause to bestowe
any great gratuitie on him, let it be no kist commoditie or obscure thing, but such
a present as may be daylie in sight, the better to be remembred. Being thus
carefull to hawe good freinds at court, your prince shall be alwayes rightly
enformed of any bussines which doth concerne yow or your freinds.
Be suir also to hawe some of the ringleaders both in counsell and session to
be your assured freinds. Eetein still the best men of lawe and advocats in
Ediubrugh for your counsell. Hawe a good, diligent, skillfull and faithfull agent
still resident at Edinbrugh, who shall be your pensioner, and shall advertise yow
from tyme to tyme of all occurrences there, Besyds this, yow shall still hawe
in your owne companie a man expert in the laws and statutes of the kingdome,
whom yow shall rctaine alwayes with your selfe as your domestjek scrwant. Let
him be a publick noterie, and a messenger at armes. It is best to hawe him a
borne Southerland man, if it be possible, for so shall he be trustiest to yow.
Trust not too much to your owne witt, but consult with your trustiest freinds
in any weightie bussines. Do not committ your secret interpryses vnto any, but
vnto him whom yow trust with the execution therof. Be close and secret in all
your affaires, for secrecie is a wertue without the which no great interpryse can
be brought to passe. Commit no mater of importance but vnto such as yow
know to be trustie to yow, and of whose secrecie yow ar assured and confident.
356
LETTER OF ADVICE BY
[c. 1620.
Trust never too much vnto a reconciled cnemie, neither shall you follow his
Hvy cQ . i n nry muter of importance, except his opinion be secounded by your
wysest and trustiest freinds, for he will (perhaps) adwyse yow to abuse your
trustiest servants and such as were faithfullest to yourself aganst him.
Be never so Intire or familiar with any man, but if it happen that you discord,
yow may retire with safetie, without disclosiug your most inward secrets to any
flesh breathing, yea, not to the wyffe of your bossome. For it is a meir follie
for a man to in thrall himself farther to his freind then that he neids not fear him
being his enemie.
Be war vpou freindship to be suirtie for any man, lust therby yow endanger
the estate of your succ^ssours when yow least expect the same. For he that
payeth another mans debts goeth the reddie way to leawe other men to pay his,
and seiketh his own overthrow. Therfore if he be such a one that yow cannot
refuse, choose rather to lend that mon^y from your selfe vpon good band though
yow borrow it ; so may yow pkmsour your freiud and happelie secure your self.
And in borrowing of money be ewer precious of your word, for he that hath a
cair to keip dayes of payment is lord commander many tymes of another mans
purse. If yow will ncids be suretie for any man in blockes and barganes (which
is werie dangerous) then do it for such as ar rcsponsall, and that can give yow
good securitie for your releif ; els not.
Vse such affabilitie aud convenient complement with your freinds and others
as comune civilitie and courtesie requyreth, without making yourself too deire to
your freind or your freind to cheape to you. Be courteous towards all men, and
cheirlie towards your inferiours, who ar not bouud by dewtie to folow yow,
wherby yow shall insinuat yourself into ther affections. Be carefull and diligent
to preserwe your own place among your equals. Strywe to be truely noble buith
in your cari^ge and all your actions. Be of a pleasant and mirrie conversation.
Resort most among your equaliser rather betters if yow can find them. Let your
companie be of honest men, not defamed or vicious. Offend no man willinglie.
Break no bitter jests vpon any man publicklie as many do who haid rather loise
ther freind then ther jest. Be no wilfull maynteyner of strange self-con ceated
opinions, yet do not suddantlie give ower your argument at the first. But when
yow hawe spoken sufficientlie to let the companie knowe that yow hawe the
better leawe it so. If yow be giwen to choller, strywe to owercome that passion,
for it doth not become a nobleman. Yet above all things be sensitive of iniurie.
1620.] SIR ROBERT GORDOS. 3:. 7
Forbear to be too familiar with the inhabitants of your countrey, for it
breedeth contempt. Let them once knowe that yow ar thcr superiour. Neither
wold I wish yow to be ower retired; but be oppen and affable in giving aecesse
to ewery honest persoue when they hawe ado that they may mak there owne
euits to yow themselfs; and not employ others as intereessours, which in some
measour will abate the pryde of your proudest countreymen. But bcwarre to
lightlie and contemne your gentlemen.
Do few bussines with your countreymen by the intercession of others, or by
the mediation of these that ar in greatest credite with yow - for they will s«r k
the margh and substance of your tennants, and your own reputation shall bo
therby diminished. It is also requisite that yow learne to speak the vulgar
langage of the countrey that yow may truelie vnderstand and vprightlie judge the
complaints of the poor ons.
Be constant and steadfast in a good resolution, and be not easelie perswaded
to change or alter what yow hawe once concluded. Deliberat long before yow do
ioterpryse any mater of importance ; but when yow hawe resolwed anything, let
the execution therof be als sudJain as the deliberation was llngring.
Againe I adwyse yow that if at any tyme yow hawe engadged your word,
performe it, being lawghfull, though to your loise ; so shall your promise be as
forceahle as anothers band, your word as anothers oath ; for it is the man that
gives credit to his oath, more then the oath to the man.
Be war to do anything thai can bring yow within the compasse of traisone ;
for (doubtlese) our king will do what he can to courb the nobilitie of Scotland,
and to diminishe therpowar, therby to eonforme them to the custome of England.
It is not now with our noblemen as when our king was resident in Scotland.
Hardlie then could the kings majestie punishe any of our greatest nobilitie when
they hade offended, by reason of ther great dependencies and freimlship. But now
he being absolute king oi all Great Breitane, the caise is altered. He may when
he listeth dantone the proudest and mightiest of yow all. At that tyme he was
glaid to restore this yeir such as he haid attainted and forfeited by popular
tumult the yeir preceiding. Now, if a nobleman be once forfalted or proseript,
ther is small hope of being restored againe.
Be ewer reddie to hazard your goods, lyf and lands in the defence of your
prince and countrey. If at any tyme (as God forbid) the succession of the king-
dome of Scotland shall happen to come in dispute or question, as yow lowe your
358
LETTER OF ADVICE BY
[c. 1G20.
own standing, folow him whom in your conscience yow think to liawe the best
light, wiihout inspect either to i'reindship, to surname, to allyance or kinred ; and
whose tytle soewer yow shall sie once setlcd by a parliament, defend him with all
your might. So shall yow be suir to escape forfalterie, and the iniurie of ciwill
calamities.
Acknowledge the Marquis of Huntley as your cheif, but if he do not respect
yow as your place and qualitie deserweth, then desist to folow him, but vse him
as another nyghbour; for yow neid not be in any mans reverence but your
princes, of whom yow hold immediatlie. Let a Gordones querrell be your own, so
farr as he hath right and equitie on his syde. Preferrc your surname (though
they be not within drgiie defendant) to your neerest allyance.
Earle Jhon, your father, hath iuaid a tailzie of his lands and earldome to
Adame Gordone of Achindoun, and his heyrs mail!, incacc his own succession
(and ours that aryour vncles) shall happen to faille, as God forbid. George, Lord
Gordone (the Marquis of Huntley's eldest sone), is hcyre apperand to Achindoun.
"When therforc it shall please God that yow come to perfyte age, yow shall vrgc
the Marquis of Huntley to mak a mutuall tailzie of his house to yow, which if he
do refuse, jow shall do weell to break the first, and to mak a mutual I tailzie of
any other of the surname of Gordone that lyks yow best, after your own famelie
mentioned alreddy in the taillzie, and this yow may do by renueing agaiue of
your infeftment.
Wheusoewer yow shall happen to hawe warres, lead fourth your countreymeu
your self in persone ; so shall they obey the more willingly, and fight with better
courage. But if your affaires or health do not permit yowrself to be present,
commit the charge of your men to some gentleman descended of your own famelie
that is of greatest reputation among them, or rather to one of your brethren.
Keip your men ruder strict discipline and obedience, otherwayes thay will prowe
to be exceiding vnrcwlie.
In tyrne of warre be extreamlie liberall, for then is no tyme of spairing. Let
the justnes of your cause be your greatest strenth. Be cold and foreseeing in
devysing, constant in your resolutions of warre, forwart and quick in your execu-
tions. Do neither fear nor lightlie your enemie. Hazard once your own persone
fairlie, but hawing so obteyned the fame of courage, expose not your self rashelie
to ewerie danger; for in the persone of the commander consisteth the saiftie of
the inhabitants.
1620.] SIR ROBERT GORDOX. 359
In tyme of peace prepare your countreymen for warre. When they nierolie,
either at tltrir hois+ings or huntings, cause them to rnerche in order boith at ther
going fourth and ther retiring; for they ar giwen and inclyncd to merche out of
order. Appoynt musters and veapon^hews once or twyse eyerie yeir. Set none
of your land hut vnto such as will promise to arme and cluath them selfs as is
fitting, whensoever vow shall hawe occasion to charge them. Cherishe your
rountreymen and train them vp in all kynd of honest exercise, such as hunting,
ryding, archerie, shooting with the gun, goring, jumping, running, swimming and
such lyk. Eshew the footeball as a dangerous and vn profitable exercise.
Yse your diligence to take away the reliques of the Irishe barbaritie which as
yet remains in your countrey, to wit, the Irishe langage, and the habit. Purge
your countrey peice and peice from that vnciwill kynd of cluithes, such as plaids,
mantels, truses and blew bonnets. Mak sewere acts aganst those that shall
weare them. Cause the inhabitants of the countrey to cloith them selfs as the
most chvill prowinees of the kingdome do, with doublet, hoise, eloiks and hats,
which they may do with less chargs then the other. It is no excuse which some
wold prettnd alleilgeing that vnciwill habit to be lightest among the montanes.
They may cloith them selfs (if they list) with coats and breiches of one coulour,
as light and handsome as plaid and truses. The Ireishe langage cannot so soone
be extinguished. To help this plant schooles in ewerie corner in the countrey to
instruct the youth to speak Inglishe. Let your cheif scooles for learning be at
Dornoche, and perswade the gentlemen of your countrey to bestowe lairglie vpou
ther children to make them schollers, for so shall they be fittest fur your serwico.
Freasse to ciwilize your countrey and the inhabitants therof, not onlie in this
poynt, but lykwyse in all other things which yow shall obserwe abrod iu yuur
trawells among other nations.
Strywe to keip the inhabitants of your countrey at home from wexing one
another with vnnecessarie suts in law. Let them choose indifferent arbitratours
withiu the countrey to settle and compone such controversies and debaites as
shall happen at any tyme to aryse among them, and whomsoever yow find
refractarie heirin, do yow and all the countreymen joyne togidder aganst him, to
crosse his affaires at Edinbrugh; for many tedious woyages from Sutherland to
Edinbrugh will boith vndo yow and your countrey. Suffer no stranger to oppresse
your countreymen by lawe, and when they shall happen to be so troubled, defend
them with all your meanes, although it should be to your loise at that present,
UGO
LETT EH OF ADVICE BY
[c \G'20.
for so others will be lother in tyme coming to trouble and wex your countrey in
that lynJ.
Vndertake no sute in lawe willinglie aganst anie man whatsoewer, but cheiflie
aganst a poore man, without receawing of great wrong. Hazard ratlier to receavve
some loise by the arbitriinent of freinds, for he that winneth most at law, loiseth.
Be sure that your cause be just which yow go to try by law, and spare no charges
to obtein the wictorie in the first action that yow liawe to be tryed before the
lords of couusell or session, What I do speak heir of your lawe bussines, the
same I do adwyse yow in your querrells and feghting. Bewarr to give any occa-
sion of stryf, but if yow be once engadged in your honour or credit, mentayne
what yow hawe vndertaken cwen with your deerest blood. Then shall yow be
sure that men will be the more vnwilling afterward to prowoik yow ; for the bad
or good successe of any mans first attempt breedeth ewer a confidence or fear in
his enemies of all his ensuing actions.
The heyrs of the Lord Oliphant hawe (as I do heir) ane action of spuilzie
depending in law aganst your house since the tyme that your grandfather, Earle
Alexander, went into Cathnesse to spoyle that countrey, the yeir of C4od I m v c
aughtie-eight. If they do not mowe this mater to yow, yow shall newer motion
the same to them. It is not good (sayeth the proverb) to awaik sleiping dogges.
Whensoewer they shall intend that action aganst yow, vse your 1 est freinds and
all your nioyen to get the mater taken away freindlie, and give rather a somme of
money by the sight of freinds then that yee shall abyd the extremitie of so old
ane action of that nature ; except it passe prescription, then yow neid not to be
■ aflrayed of it.
Ther is ane other thing that I wishe yow to be carefull off, if I do it not before
your majoritie, and this it is. Be diligent to call iu all the bands and obligations
that your father gawe out in his tyme, and be werie carefull to call in all the
iufeftments he gawe either vpon wedsets or otherwayes. For he gawe tripill
securitie for all the det that he is owing in Aberdeine ; first, he gawe bands to the
creditours conteyning cautioners; then he gawe Sutherland men for releif of such
gentlemen as were suirtie and cautioners for him in Aberdein \ and thridlie, he
gawe securitie and infeftment of land to such Sutherland men as he did imploy in
that bussines. So the nixt remeid is, to recall in all these securities when the
money is satisfeid, which (God willing) shall be done, if I happen to liwe till
your majoritie. Againe, ther ar some bands alreddie payed which av as yet in
c 1620.] SIR ROBERT GORDOX. 3d
the croditcmres hands. One ther is in the Laird of Assints hands of two thou-
sand ucika, fur the vJ.ich he hath gutleii Faliechnock. Ane other ther is of thrie
thousand meiks maid to Maister Duncan Forbes, wherein Macky is cautioner.
This also is satisfied, and remaiues in Maister William Forbes of Craggivar his
hands. Ane other is of ane thousand meiks payed alreddie to William Innes,
chalmerland, which band he hath promesed me to be destroyed. Jhon Gordone
of Golspitour hath infeftments vpon the hinds of Clontradduell for his securitie
for his cautionerie in Aberdein ; which infeftments yow shall call in and caneell
when the money is payed, if it be not done by me. George Sinclair in Cathnesse
is infoft in Loithbeg in clause warrandice of his two thousand merks, which also
yow shall cause to be canceled when the money is satisfied. Ther is also a band
of a thousand meiks in Gilbert Gray of Skibo his hands, which somme I hawe
satisfied, and hawe gotten his acquittance thervpon. Ther ar many of this nature
which I know not nor can remember. So preasse yow to amend your fathers
escapes herein. It may be the tyme of prescription will passe before they sute it,
then yow ar sure ; and it may be they delay to sute these bands so long as I liwe.
Mack your residence at Dornoch in the winter seasone, and hold the mostpairt of
your meitings and courts ther, that so you may better the towne and passe the
tyme the mirrier with the gentlemen of your countrey, who will repair thither to
passe the winter with yow. Enlarge the liberties of Doruoch so far as yow can,
and proelame a Setterdays market ther, which yow shall cause obserwe weiklie and
dewlie. And because this whyle bypast all the merchandise and trafick of Strath-
nawer and Sutherland hath bein transported ower to Tayne, whereby it is enriched
and Dornoch depauperat ; to remeid this yow shall mack strait and seweir acts
in your courts that no merchandise be transported ower into Tayne, except it be
first brought to the towne of Dornoch and offered to be sold ther.
Be earefull (as I said) to enlarge and to mentayne the liberties of the toun of
Dornoch, because it holds of your self. Erect seooles ther, which may be a
seminarie of wertue to instruct the children and youthes of your countrey in
learning. Ferswade the inhabitants of that towne to build wessels and shippes of
ther owne to transport from thence such commodities as the countrey yeelds, and
to bring thither from other parts such merchandise as is requisite for the weill of
the countrey. Suffer as litle wyne and spyee to be brought hither as yow can,
for that serwes to lytle purpois, but to give occasion of drunknes and gluttonie.
Erect it in a brough royall if yow can.
,2 z
r.'j-j
LETTER OF AFjVICE BY
[c. 1620.
Setle also a summer market in Broray, that so yow may bring money iuto your
DHiiiDicj in uiu ouiiitaci ocUsoiie Tor ; T uui liuii'to, w ooll and other commodities ;
seeing the heat markets that yow have ar in the winter.
According a^ the pryces of wictualls do fall and lyse, either for the abondance
or seanteuesse thrrolf, the pryces of all other wares within the countrey should
ryse and fall. Sutler not the nyghbouring strangers tobwy your wares or wictuall
at what pryces they please to set on them, and to sell them againe either to your
selfe or others at the deirest pryces. But let all the commodities of the couutrie
be first offered to be sold at Dornoch ; for reasone would that they should hawe
the profeit thcrof before a stranger. Set doun ewerie yeir a certanc pryce for all
things, considering first how it is hi other countrey s, and the pryce being ieason-
ablic set doun be the adwyae of the chcif gentlemen of the countrey, then punish e
exactlie such inhabitants as yow sic refractarie. Allure strangers and artificers of
all sort* to repair to your countrey, and to inhabit ther.
Be war to mak a forehand block off your victual], fishes or other commodi-
ties, but vpon extreame necessitie of money to performe some great bussiues ; for
it vndois the tennents and hinders yow greatlic, being forced to sell your com-
modities for halfe the value. It is boith easier and farther to your profeit to tak
vp silver vpon anuell whersoever it can be hade, and to sell your commodities
yeirlie as the market gois. If yow hawe to do with money, tak it vpon anuell
within your owne countrey, if it can be hade, rather then to go to Ediubrugh and
Aberdein, and ther to spend double anuell in seiking of it ; the experience lieirof
your father bought at his owne charges.
I do advyse yow of one thing, that if at any tyme yow give bands for money
(as yow must do vpon sewerall occasions) that yow newer pay the money vntill
yow reeeawe your bands ; for I hawe knowne many to hawe payed the money
vpon discharges and not retire ther bauds; so that they were afterward persued
for the money and forced to pay the sommes, the discharges being lost. Therfore
when yow deale in any bargane with such as hawe not given yow your bands, be
sure to get discharges from them for all preceiding bussiues bctuix yow.
Moreower, when yow giwe any infeftmeut of land vpon reversion, yow shall
cause insert the reversion in the bodie of the infeftment. So yow shall be sure
that the reversion sliall not be lost If this be not looked too yow may loise the
land by not produceing the reversion.
The first thing I would wish yow to interpryse when yow are out of debt and
162 o.] SIR ROBERT GORDON. 363
roar vvedsetts rcliwed.is to build a house in DunroWn, for that » tl.ewer.e tort
W c~.il.-r ff "..r eonntrcy, and the most pleasant habitation yow hawe. Ther
yow may easelie male a fyne delicat park, comprehending tlmrin boith the .yds of
the bnnie of Golspie, the most pairt of the lands of the Eack.es, with the Gallow-
hill, and some of that which is round about the house of Dunrobm. low may
breid therm boith reid deir and fellow deir, if yow list, as also horses I think
fittest that yow should build vpon the mote. V.e lieirin the opinion of the most
skilfull artificers vow can find ; and if they will perswade yow that the mote is a
sure foundation at the southwest corner, and giwe yow opinion to build vpon the
mote yow shall folow ther opinion therm, and drawe the southeast corner of
the hitching and brew-house ewen leawell with the lytle tour, and cause the north-
east quarter of the great chalmer to be drawen east againe to melt the south
quarter a,anst the lytle tour, and mak your entres at the east, by this meanes
yow shall cnlairge your cloise a great dcale. Eat I leave this to ther advyse who
ar lieirin more expert then I am. None in the kmgdome can build cheaper then
yow, hawing stone and lyme so ncir yow.
Now concerning your cole hugh (which decayed before I returned home from
Engknd after your fathers death by reasone of a controvert betuix your grand-
mother and your mother). I do advyse yow to put it fordward aganie And if by
reason of your other employments yow can not easehe go on w.th .then set a
take or lease of it to some speciall and trustie tremds who will vndertake ,t
Employ your countreymen often with woluntar.e contributions and supports,
especial iewhensoewer yow vndertak to build or marie a daughter, or interpryse
any other important busies; not only to hold them ,n vse therof, but also to
stop ther mouthes from seiking any fawour at your hands incaice they refuse jow:
Ask confidence that which yow require, for he that asketl. doubtt.nglie teacheth
the way to be derived.
Vse a moderation in all your exercises, and suffer not your sport to drawe yow
from your more serious affaires. Let your bodelie exercises be running, leaping,
fencing, wrenstling, dancing, playing at tennise, areherie, ryding, tilt, ring, hawk-
in- and hunting, which is a martiall sport, and resembleth the warres much ; for
it°rmlceth a man hardie and skilfull in all grounds. When yow wold be quyet,
and withdrawes yourself from your exercises, admit few to your chalmer I^t
them be boith trustie and secret that yow admit, for cshewing of careing tales and
reports abroad.
364
LETTER OF ADVICE BY
[c 1630.
Touching reports either false or true, T thus advyse yow. Considder first the
nature of the persone reporter; riixt, whflt entres.se he can hawe in the weell or
ewell of him of whom he maUeth the report ; thridiie, the lykliehood of the pur-
pois itself; and last, the nature and bypadfe lyf of the persone delated. Try the
mater exactlie, and if it be found a ly, punishe the tale teller rigourouslie, that
others by his exemple may absteyne from lying reports; for it is better to try
reports, then by eredulitie to foster suspition vpon ane honest man ; and to mis-
trust one, to whom no such vnhonestie was knowen before.
Be carcfull of the report that gois abrod of yow through the countrey ; and of
all other things eshew ane ewell name; so tender, delicat, and incurable abowe
whatsoewer els is fame.
Yse playing at cards aud dyce sornetyme, but therm obserwe these things.
Kesolwe to hazard all that yee play. Play no more then yovr care to cast among
the pages and boyes. Flay ahvayes fair play preceislie. without angering your-
self or offending the companie, least yow come in vse of tricking and lying in
jeast. Learne to bear your loises patientlie. Let yonr pley be great or small as
pleaseth the companie, if they be not your inferiours ; for then it becommeth yow
to owerrewle them to your pleasour. In playing obserwe these things, otherways
absteyne alluterlie from playing.
As for your hunting, iff yee be not carefull to presenve your game and
forestes, that sport will decay. Spair therfore your deir and roes, your connie-
warrand, and all sorts of wild foule within your countrey. Hawe shearcheres and
watchmen in ewerie corner of the countrey to informe yow of the destroyers of
your game, and punishe the offenders exactlie. Hunt often in the Diriemoir and
Durines, therby to keip yow in possession of hunting in these bounds seeing it is
holden of yow, howsoewer it is Macky his heritage.
AVhen your leasure serwcs yow, reid the best approwed histories in any
langage which yow vnderstand ; for therby yow may knowe other mens escaps,
and how they hawe wilhnglie run them selfs into eminent dangers ; and also
learne how to avoyde them. Yow shall hawe some insight in all sciences, cheiflie
in cosmographie and georgraphie, which becommes a man of your qualitie.
Keid choysed and approwed authours, not confusedlie a peice of one then
a peice of ane other, for the turning ower of dywers wolumes togidder breids
confusion. It tastes of a wandering and vnstable disposition, and a multitude
of books do distract the myud. Therfore when yow do beginn to reid any
c 1620.] SIR ROBERT GO R DOS. 30. 5
book pervse it to the end before yow enter with ane other; and when yow
growe \renrie, l<^we, and retire to tlie same againe. What yow reid let it not
slip vndegested till meditation hawe maid it your owne. Cause erect a biblio-
theek in Dornoeh and fill it with sufficient store of books, boith for your credit
and the weell of this countrey, to amend thcr ignorance which increases through
laik of bookes. This work shall be begun and ititerprysed to your hand if I liwe.
In your langage be plain, honest, mirrie, natural!, quick, short and sententious,
without any afi'eetatioun in termes or gesture. Vse mirrines or grawitie accord-
ing to the subject and occasion of the tyme.
Be war with vseing execsse of meat and drink, cheillie be war of drunkenesse.
Abuse not your bodie in youth with surfet, ryot or any other distemper; and for
your longer dayes and better health vpon earth, afflict not your bodie with two
much vnneeessarie phisick. Be not dismayed although you grone vnder the
hand of seiknes, for as sometymes it purgeth the bodie from nocent humours, so
doeth it often tymes the soule from more dangerous seeuritie.
Be not superfluous in your rayment lyk a deboshed waster, not yet too baise
lyke a miserable wretche. Let them be eomclie, honest, eleane and proper ;
rather meane, to change often, then coatlie to keip them long and out of fashion;
keiping the seasons of the yeir and of your age. But at parliament and hie
tymes spare not to be apparreled as your rank and qualetie rcquircth. In the
fashions of them be carelesse, vsing them according to the forme of the tyme,
sometymes richelier, sometymes meanlier, cloatlied as occasion serweth, without
keiping any precise rewle therin ; and vse your repair to parliaments als rarlie as
yow can.
Ther can be no accomplished gentleman without traweliug abrod in other
kingdomes. And becaus the governement of strangers is best knowen by
trawell, ray advyse to yow is to trawell about the age of eightein yeirs, for then
ar yow able not only to learne }'our exercises abrod but also to learne and remark
the langage, maners, customer and governement off ewerie state and kingdome.
In your trawells mak ehoyse of wyse and discreit companie, els it may breid yow
more hanne then yow ar awar off.
Ther is a historie of your descent and gcnealogie wrytten in Englishe by one
that loueth and favours you and your house. I advyse you to preserwe and keip
that historie saitflie amongst your best wryts least it should be lost or destroyed ;
and whosoewer advyses yow to the contrarie, trust him not; he doth it onlie for
360 LETTER OF AUYICL BY [c. 1620.
his owne ends. It is ane ornament to yow and your famelie to hawe your actions
so i -v.^lie a ^1 l.iiv/li^ iK=ory,vcd. Tlicr is p.lso a compend of the same wrytten
in Latin by one Mr. Alexander Kosse. I do adwyse yow to preserve boitli these
books cairfullie.
Whatsoewer good purpose yon- intend at your death that do hi your lyff; for
in so doing it shall be more acceptable to God and commendable to man. For
he that gives when he cannot hold is worthie of thanks when one cannot chuse :
besyds in so doing yow shall sie your intent brought to ane end, and will therby
hinder the cra^ie conscience of ane executour or owersicr to pervert your meanes
when yow dye to some sinister respect or privat end. Whatsoever yow shall
purpose be silent in your intentions least yow lie prevented and laughed at.
Now, to conclude, 1 advyse yow to liwe wertuouslie that yow may dye
paticntlie, far he who lives most honestlie will dye most willinglie ; that so,
liwing a good man, yow may dye in peace, lamented of your countrey men,
admired by your nighbours, and leaving a good fame behind yow on earth, yow
may obteyne the crowne of eternall felicitie in heavin.
It may be if God spare my dayes and health, that by his assistance and grace
I shall performe some of these things before your majoritie. But sieing ther is
none besyds my selfe and yowr vncle, Sir Alexander, descended of your owne
famelie to manage the affaires of your house dureing your nonage, I hawe
therfor wryten these precepts for yow that incace God do call vs to himself, yow
may advyse with these instructions, as if wee were alywe to give yow counsell.
They will not onlie instruct your selfe but also may serwe for some purpose to
your successours, Earles of Sutherland. These dead papers, when yow please to
reid them will not flatter yow. These will not give yow partial! counsell for ther
owne profeit and commoditie.
The fatherlie lowc that I bear yow, and the tender care which I hawe of yow
and your estate, hath mowed me to wryte them. Yee shall tind them impartiall
counselours, neither flatering in any wyce, nor importuning yow at vumeit tymes.
They will not come vncalled, neither speak vnspeired at. Keceawe them then,
and harkin vnto them as loueing counsellours with as good a mynd as I do give
them. Keceawe them (I say) from him, whose principall care in this world hath
ewer bein and shall always be, the prosperous and floorishing estate of yow and
your famelie, which I beseik the Lord to blisse.
Finis.
1020.] sir nonvnT gokdqx. 307
Some Additiones.
Permit none of your eountre\ men (chcif.y your own surname) to giue ther
dependance in any sort to the Earle of Cathnes or to Macky, or any other
nighbour, and let rone either within or without Sutherland meddle with your
conntrey affairs, or dead betuix yon* and your countrey men, for that will alwayes
diminishe your authority and reputation among your people, and will (doubtlese)
harme yow if yow happen to fall out with any of the uighboriug countreyes. By
the contrarie do yow s try we to haue a faction and some dependancy in all the
nighbonring prowinces tho' it cost yow largely.
Suffer no intelligencer to be within your conntrey, at least to stay long ther,
to spy and reweal your secrets \nto your nighbouris; and cause your countrey men
eshew secret correspondencies with your nigh bourn, vnlesse it be by your own
permission and attollerance.
Vse frinclshipe with the most flourishing men in the commonwealth or court
for the tyme that yow may vsc ther fawor whensoewer yow haue anie bussines
to do. And still remember them with small gratuities such as they shall haue
greatest esteime of and make most often vse of.
This I do adwyse yow further concerning the laird off Duffus and his kin.
They haue ewer borne a secret malice and hatred to your house and surname, for
your forbears haue taken the bitt out of ther mouthes. Therfor trust them litle.
In all ages they haue still joyned with the enemies of your house. If in progres
of tyme yow can or may be able to do it, faile not to shift and buy the laird of
Duffus out of your countrey, for he will owerwatch all occasions to contest
against yow and take part with your enemies. Enter him not to any lands in
this countrey, but to such as the la*t deceased laird of Duffus shall dy infeft and
seased in ; otherwyse yow shall endanger the lands of Kinmunouy and other
lands, resigned be this laird of Duffus his forbears into the hand of your great-
grandfather, Earle John, by the which right yow possesse these landes. And
lykewyse befor yow enter any laird of Duffus to his lands yow shall cause him
ratify ane band past betuix Alexander, Maister of Sutherland, and this laird of
Duffus, his predecessor, which band was of late ratifyed by this laird of Duffus
his father.
Brydle the pryde, etc. . . .
3C3
LETTER OF ADVICE BY SIR ROBERT GORDOX. [c. 1C20.
• If yow sie any house or family which hath beine long in frindshipe with
yourea, commanded by auc vnworthy foolish man, and therby likely to decay,
first try your diligence to vphoM him. If this cannot be done, then persvade him
(if it be possible) to binde liimselfe vnder great pecuuiall soumes, that he shall do
nothing without your adwyse and consent. If he do faile herein, and that yow
perceawe and forsce his decay, then make your own profite by his fall by all good
means possible.
Morower, if ther be any rich hey re or heretrix fitt for mariag in any
nighbouring shyre strywe to get her for on off your sons or frindis; and quhen
any gentlewoman that is a stranger is matched to any of your countrey men,
suffer her not to be vronged, that others may therby be induced to settle them-
selves in your countrey. Tpon the other part, suffer as few of your countrey
gentlewomen as yow can to marie or match themselwes in other shyres, for that
will drawe the riches of your pro wince to your nighbours. This is all, I think,
expedient to adwyse yow concerning your nighbours, with quhom yow shall
cause your countrey men alwayes to entertain free commerce and traffique for
venting the commodities of your countrey.
3G9
COLLECTED SEALS AXD SIGNATURES
ARMORIAL SEALS OF THE EARLS OF SUTHERLAND.
/*' ;<
£v £
I\o. 3.
]. William, fifth Earl of Sutherland, 1357.
". Alexander Gordon, Master of Sutherland, 1021).
3. John, eighth Earl of Sutherland, 1492.
3 A
370
ARMORIAL SEALS OF THE
No. 1.
1-4 John, tenth Earl of Sutherland, 1550-15G7
5. John, twelfth Karl of {Sutherland, 16U0.
E.UlL.-i OF .HCTHKHLAXn.
371
/ ^-sV^i
1/ fJ^Ji \
No. 5.
No. G.
1. John, thirteenth Earl of Sutherland, 1G2*2.
2. George, fourteenth Earl of Sutherland, 1GS0.
3. John, fifteenth Earl of Sutherland, 1729.
4. William, Lord Strathnaver, 1/19.
5. William, sixteenth Earl of Sutherland, 1734.
6. 7. Elizabeth, Countess of Sutherland, 1S09.
372
SUTHERLAND SIGN A TURES.
&«^ &2)2 f2p$oP&»*
a
mAd? of- ff&kn-^
jm<>B£-**-«&) fl^LfL^
No. 5.
1. Adam Gordon, Earl of Sutherland, 1515.
2. Alexander, Master of Sutherland, 15'2<J.
3. 4. John, tenth Earl of Sutherland, 1549, 15G2.
5. Helenor, Countess of Errol and Sutherland, his wife, 1562
SUTHEhLAXD SWSA TU11ES.
Paii Cm>^o,
No. 4
'PmiD7fy%o
yflsuines fatffirUndu& center
No. C,
finwzcsu^iirjjm/
'dJwr/kn^.
No. S. No. 7.
1, 2. Alexander, eleventh Earl of Sutherland, 4. Sir Robert Gordon of Gordonston, c. 1650.
1587, 15SS. 5. Sir Alexander Gordon of Navidale, 1636.
3. Lady Jane Gordon, Countess of Sutherland, 6, 7. John, twelfth Earl of Sutherland, 1615.
hia wife, 1616. 8. Agnea Elphinstone, Lis Countess, c. 1612.
374
SUTIIXltLASD HIGXA TU11ES.
Zt/7tQ3^-J7)'?HL
it
M? (j)wwiJmrih
s-
No. 2.
No. 3.
m
No. 4.
No. 5.
1. John, thirteenth Earl of Sutherland, lf>44. 4. George, fourteenth Earl of Sutherland,
2. Jean Drummond, his first Countess, c. 1(330. c. 16S2.
3. Anna Fraser, hi3 seeond Countess, c. 1642. 5. Jean Wemysa, his Countess, c. 1700,
.V i 'T1IERL . I y 1) SIGXA TUh'KS.
^h A a//t4iM^y
X.i. s
I. 2. 3. Juhn, Lnr<I Stra'huavernml Hfttenth <% Dame Fr.mces Trav* }, liis Cminteas, 1727.
Earl of Sutlierl m,!, I r.%', 171.*) ti. William, LonI Strathimver. 1727.
4. Ht-lt'ii IV-hiaue, L.i.ly Strutting «r. liia 7- Knthoiine Mnrtsoii, La.ly Stnithnaver, 1 7-H>.
first \s\ ft, 10^7. S. Hdeu Sutherland, L.tdv Culquboun, 1745.
SUTHERLAND SIGNATURES.
No. 2.
-£. Jmmma
No. 3.
r 4 ^Z^/O
No 5.
ut&na/i/e/r
No.
^"*zr
1. William, sivtLtnth Fail uf Sutherland. 1750.
2. Elizabeth Wmiyss, his Countess, c. 1740.
3. Elizabeth Sutherland, wife of James Wemyss of Wemyss. 174^.
4. o. William, l.nrd Strathoaver ami >-eveiiteeiith Earl of Sutherland, 1747, 1700.
0. Mary Maxwell, his Countess, 1701.
7, 8. Elizabeth, Countess of Sntheilami and Marchioness of Stafford, 1S03, 1S20.
'.). Heor^e, Lord Gower, afterwar.ls firdt Duke of Sutherland, her husbaud, ISO 1-
SIGXATVEES OF ROYAL rEESOXAGES.
377
No. 6.
1. Mary of Guise, Queen Dowager of Scotland, 1557. 4. King James the Sixth, 1601.
2. Mary, Queen of Scots, 1571. 5. King Charles the First, 1634.
3. Elizabeth, Queen of England, 1563. 6. King Charles the Second, 1651.
3 B
SIG.VATCRES OF ROYAL PERSONAGES.
Xo. 1.
§^^^_
a
No. 2.
No. 5.
1. King William the Third, 1693.
2. King George the First, 1714.
3. King George the Second, 1727.
4. Adolphus Frederick, Duke of Cambridge, 1S44.
5. Ferdinand "William, Duke of "Wirtemberg, 1G94.
SIGXATUfiES OF THE XOBILITY, ETC.
379
wiitfytiuM-
^Jthfl
No. 4.
t^
1. Katherine, Duchess of Lennox, ] G24.
2. Frances, Duchess-dowager of Richmond and Lennox, 1626.
3. Henrietta Stuart, Marchioness of Huntly, 163G.
4. Sir Walter Scott, 1S00.
5. Arthur, first Duke of Wellington, 1S43.
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SIGNATURES OF THE NOBILITY.
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No. 4.
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No. 9.
1. James, third Marquis of Hamilton, 1631.
2. Archibald, Marquis of Argyll, 1 640.
3. James, Marquis of Montrose, 1G40.
4. Johu Graham, Viscount Dundee, 16S9.
5. John, first Duke of Marlborough, 1715.
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No. 10.
6. John Erakine, sixth Earl of Mar, 1714.
7. Simon, Lord Lovat, 1714.
8. John, second Duke of Argyll, 1716.
9. John, first Duke of Roxburgh, 1716.
10. James, first Duke of Montrose, 1719.
MISCELLANEOUS SIGNATURES.
381
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17
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No. 4.
No. 6.
1. Lachlan Mackintosh of Dunauhton, 15SS. 4. Hugh Mackay of Farr, nSS.
2. William Macleod of Dunvegan, l.iSS. .'>. Donald Gnrme Maednnald of Sleat, 1/iSS,
3. William Sutherland of Duffus, 15SS. 6. William M 'Queen of Correbroclit, 15SS.
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